Can We Test the Safety of Autonomous Vehicles?

Part One

When we contemplate the idea of fully autonomous vehicles, especially when referred to as self-driving cars, we may tremble a little. This technology, however, is no longer a pipe dream of the future. Although still in the prototype stage, autonomous driving may soon become a reality – or not.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

As defined by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) refers to car safety features that have been designed to prevent collisions, improve visibility, and detect danger. According to five predefined levels of ADAS, the vehicle interface allows drivers to personalize safe driving measures according to the desired degree of autonomy. At Levels 1 to 4, driver involvement is constant.

ADAS Levels 1–4 do not include driverless vehicles. Autonomous driving must adhere to the highest level of ADAS electronic systems.

Full vehicle automation

Driver input is not required when driving becomes completely autonomous. Full automation is the highest level of ADAS and means that the car must handle any driving conditions and perform all actions that a driver would.

Consumer confidence

One aspect of this innovative development that must be considered is the psychological impact of autonomous vehicle technology. To feel comfortable with the idea of travelling in a driverless car, let’s try to uncover how this type of functionality is tested. We want to feel safe. Therefore, we want to be sure that the testing is rigorous. Trust in the safety of an automated vehicle (AV) depends on the results of the tests used to prove the car’s reliability.

In the next article, we’ll take a look at the driving conditions and technologies that need to be tested in order to turn autonomous driving into a reality.