Automated Driving: Electric Vehicles and Automation

Here we take a look at how electric vehicles use automation technology and how this evolution could improve society's attitude towards electric vehicles today.

Automated cars today

Automated driving or self-driving cars have always been a mysterious part of the technological future. Should people know what a car does, or can they just sit back and enjoy the route? There are still no fully autonomous vehicles in the US, according to JDPower. The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) evaluates the level of automation in cars by how automated they are and sets standards that determine how a driver drives a car.

The following is a brief description of this standard.

• Level 0 means that the driver is in full control of the car at all times, but the car may have automatics and warnings such as emergency braking.
• Level 1 requires driver control, but with different levels of control such as variable speed control including steering, braking and overdrive.
• Level 2 is very similar to level 1, but includes steering and support for both braking and acceleration, such as lane centering and variable cruise control.
• Level 3 means the driver is in the driver's seat but is not driving the vehicle during automatic functions. At this level, the driver may have to take over user control. The person behind the wheel can only drive the vehicle under certain conditions.
• Level 4 enables Level 3 automation but discourages driver intervention. These vehicles may or may not have pedals or a steering wheel. However, this level does not work in difficult weather conditions.
• Level 5 This is a fully automated vehicle that can be driven in all conditions. The only human interaction at this level is required to determine the destination.

How electric cars are gaining momentum

The development of vehicle control technology is relevant to the development of electric vehicles. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1.35 million people die each year as a result of car accidents worldwide. Manufacturers are trying to find a solution to this serious problem.

Technological progress continues around the world, thanks to the growth in electric vehicle sales, supported by companies like GM and countries aiming to reduce emissions by 2035.

Ambarella, a California-based artificial intelligence company, has uncovered many reasons why AVS and electric vehicles are evolving hand in hand. Among the key drivers are large fleet management organizations looking to drive down cost per kilometer. Another reason is to support each other's weaknesses. Thus, AVS should help electric vehicles move more efficiently, thereby supporting the need for better mileage.

There are far more opportunities to move forward with electric vehicles than to save on gas stations.