Adas & Autonomous Vehicle Engineering - January/February 2023

Overview

The January 2023 issue of ADAS & Autonomous Vehicle Engineering presents a comprehensive overview of the current state and future prospects of automated driving technologies, particularly in light of recent industry developments. This edition features a variety of articles that delve into technological advancements, industry challenges, and the evolving landscape of autonomous vehicles (AVs).

Key Highlights:

1. Volvo's 2024 EX90 Electric Vehicle: The issue opens with a spotlight on Volvo's new EX90 electric vehicle, which is equipped with Luminar's advanced Iris lidar technology. This system utilizes pulsed, time-of-flight (ToF) target illumination, allowing for rapid measurement rates and improved understanding of reflectance without speed-dependent range errors. The EX90 is designed to be ready for SAE Level 4 driving automation, showcasing Volvo's commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology for enhanced safety and automated driving capabilities.

2. Industry Reflections on Argo AI: A significant portion of the editorial discusses the recent closure of Argo AI, a high-profile player in the AV sector. This event is viewed as a pivotal moment for the industry, prompting reflections on the challenges faced by companies in achieving SAE Level 4 automation for personal vehicles. Edward Straub, director of SAE International’s Office of Automation, emphasizes the "misalignment" between public expectations and the realities of automated driving. He notes that driving is inherently a social endeavor, and the complexities involved extend beyond mere engineering solutions. The closure of Argo AI serves as a reminder of the substantial investments—approximately billion—made in AV development and the ongoing consolidation within the industry.

3. The Future of Automated Driving: The magazine features insights from industry analysts who suggest that the path to a robust business case for AVs may take many years. The articles highlight the need for a realistic assessment of the technology's capabilities and the importance of understanding the constraints that will shape the future of automated driving. The narrative suggests that while the potential for AVs is significant, the journey toward widespread adoption will be fraught with challenges.

4. Technological Innovations in ADAS: The issue also covers advancements in automated driving assistance systems (ADAS) and their influence on vehicle design and safety. Innovations in sensor technology, such as Aryballe Technology's sensors-on-a-chip solution, aim to enhance the driving experience by addressing issues like cabin odors, thereby improving overall passenger comfort.

5. Robotic ADAS Testing: Another notable feature is the introduction of ASI’s Swarming technology, which facilitates high-speed collision-avoidance testing. This technology allows for more rigorous testing scenarios that human drivers may find difficult to replicate, thereby enhancing the safety and reliability of automated systems.

6. Market Trends and Consumer Expectations: The magazine discusses the mixed outcomes of the AV sector in 2022, highlighting the need for companies to align their offerings with consumer expectations. As the industry continues to evolve, understanding market demands and technological feasibility will be crucial for success.

7. SAE MOBILUS Resource Platform: The issue concludes with information about SAE MOBILUS, a technical resource platform that provides access to a vast array of mobility engineering resources. This platform is designed to support engineers and students in their quest to solve pressing challenges in the mobility industry, featuring tools for efficient research and collaboration.

Conclusion:

The January 2023 issue of ADAS & Autonomous Vehicle Engineering encapsulates the dynamic and rapidly changing landscape of the automated vehicle industry. With a focus on technological advancements, industry challenges, and the implications of recent events like the closure of Argo AI, this edition serves as a critical resource for professionals and enthusiasts alike. It underscores the importance of realistic expectations, ongoing innovation, and the need for a collaborative approach to navigate the complexities of automated driving technologies. As the industry continues to mature, the insights provided in this issue will be invaluable for shaping the future of mobility engineering.