Engineering news
Nissan has unveiled its IDS autonomous electric concept car at the Tokyo Motor Show. The company says the concept is the next step of its plan to launch a number of autonomous vehicles by 2020.
The car uses advanced vehicle control and safety technologies with artificial intelligence (AI) to compensate for human error, the cause of 90% of traffic accidents. By using these technologies, the manufacturer is able to develop practical, real-world applications of autonomous drive technology.
The concept features the company's Intelligent Driving autonomous drive technology. By 2020, the manufacturer expects to see this technology deployed on cars in cities around the world.
When the driver selects Piloted Drive and turns over driving to the vehicle, the car's performance – from accelerating to braking to cornering – imitates the driver’s own style and preferences. In manual mode, sensors continually monitor conditions and assistance is available even while the driver is in control. In the event of imminent danger, the car will assist the driver in taking evasive action.
It is also fitted with a high-capacity 60 kWh battery, advanced aerodynamics, low stance, flowing form and reduced weight due to its full-carbon-fibre body. Other technologies on the IDS Concept include Piloted Park that can be operated by smartphone or tablet, and wireless charging technologies. Through these, the driver can leave parking and charging to the car.
Ghosn said: “Nissan's Intelligent Driving improves a driver’s ability to see, think and react. It compensates for human error, which causes more than 90% of all car accidents. As a result, time spent behind the wheel is safer, cleaner, more efficient and more fun.
“In every situation, it is about giving the driver more choices and greater control. And the driver will remain the focus of our technology development efforts.
“Nissan’s forthcoming technologies will revolutionise the relationship between car and driver, and future mobility.”