Autonomous technology isn’t all or nothing. That’s why we thought it would be interesting to explain the six autonomous vehicle levels and highlight noteworthy facts.
Some researchers have forecasted that we’ll see approximately eight million autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles on the road by 2025. These vehicles vary from driver-enabled to fully driverless. The advancements in technology from Level 0 to 5 are fascinating.
Autonomous Vehicle Technology – Understanding The Six Levels
Level 0: No Driving Automation
No automation, as a human being controls all functions of driving. The vehicle may include Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) such as rear camera, navigation, collision warnings, and traffic sign recognition.
Level 1: Driver-Assistance
Most driving functions are controlled by the driver; however, there are some ADAS options such as Automated Emergency Braking Systems (AEBS) or automatic accelerating or steering available in the vehicle.
Level 2: Partial Automation
Level two is when more than one ADAS function is happening simultaneously without the driver interfering, such as automated parking, and auto-pilot mode. The driver must always be ready to control the vehicle.
Level 3: Conditional Environment Automation
With level three, while using the ADAS features, the driver doesn’t have to be attentive. The ADAS features with level three are only available in certain traffic environments and weather conditions (i.e. highways, clear weather).
Level 4: High Automation
The self-driving car can adapt to road and weather conditions and almost requires no driver input. However, it does not function within every driving scenario and the system may ask the driver to take over the controls.
Level 5: Full Automation
Level five are fully autonomous vehicles that do not require a human being to drive or monitor regardless of weather or road conditions.
For now, we have to settle for partially autonomous vehicles but we’re certain many car and technology enthusiasts are eager to get their hands on a Level 5 vehicle.
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