The automotive sector is trying to deal with various design complexities and advanced computational needs. Most automotive engineers want to find solutions that create a balance between affordability and performance. They feel the need to integrate precise, high-performance sensors into self-driving vehicles. But, will it be easy to launch fully autonomous vehicles? Cars with L3 autonomy levels are still not very safe. In fact, car makers need to use infrared sensors, radar sensors, and cameras for autonomous driving. Who will be held responsible if an accident happens? The driver will have no reaction time in this situation. There are several obstacles, which prevent the automotive industry from introducing fully autonomous cars. So, let us talk about the autonomous vehicle-related challenges.
Autonomous vehicle-related challenges
The AI technology needs more advancements
Deep neural networks play an important role in AI software used for autonomous cars. Machine Learning technology is effective in tracking the control system, traffic signals, and road signs to make decisions. So, the red traffic signal on a highway prompts the car to stop. Similarly, if the construction site shows a diversion sign, the vehicle runs accordingly. But, in some cases, AI does not show the right response to real-world situations. For instance, if the sensor inside the car senses birds on the road, it will apply a brake. It does not know that those birds will naturally fly away.
Developing an intelligent system is a challenge
Automotive engineers face challenges while building a system capable of making logical decisions. Can the car decide on the appropriate speed in different situations? Is it able to alter lanes?
It is true that almost any autonomous vehicle makes decisions on its own. However, the challenge lies in determining usefulness and safety.
Of course, you will be safe if the car runs very slowly. But, no one wants this type of car on the road. It is difficult to build a car capable of making reasonable decisions. Automotive engineers should program their vehicles accordingly. Regulators have to develop a legal framework that evaluates liability when an autonomous vehicle experiences a crash.
Maintaining affordability of autonomous vehicles
Most automakers have claimed that it is not easy to design an affordable autonomous car. Cost is a barrier to consumers who want to switch to autonomous vehicles. Individual consumers especially face issues while paying for the premium technology. If automobile engineers want to sell driverless passenger vehicles, they have to develop a highly precise system.
Passengers of autonomous vehicles have common concerns
The increasing popularity of driverless cars has caused some concerns to passengers.
- Feelings of discomfort– Innovatively designed self-driving vehicles have no doubt made consumers excited. Still, most passengers and consumers do not want to rely fully on autonomous vehicles. As there are drivers, they cannot communicate with any human being. So, the autonomous models cause fear in their minds.
- Infotainment system management– All passengers have unique needs when they drive a car. Moreover, some passengers do not know the way to operate infotainment systems and other controls. For instance, if the passengers do not feel the interior temperature favourable, they may not easily be able to access the controls. They cannot interact with any human to solve the problem.
- Infractions– Not every problem is about running the car. Who will remind a passenger to wear the seatbelt? Who will prevent passengers from crowding the rear seat? Only a human driver can do these things efficiently. A robot taxi alone cannot manage issues.
When you ride a passenger car, you ask your driver to drop you off by a particular location (such as you choose a nearby tree/car or some other types of landmarks). However, in case of driverless vehicles, you cannot do so. The ideal spot will not be easily accessible. Especially people with physical issues or older passengers
- Forgotten stuff– What will happen if you have mistakenly left some personal items in the car? If there is a driver, he will remind you. But, you will have no way to get your things in case you have left any important items in the autonomous vehicle. You should also be careful if you have a ride with a sleeping baby.
- Risk of theft– Drivers are not simply the operators of a vehicle. They have watchful eyes to focus on everyone inside the car. While some passengers have bad intentions, others (like teens) are indifferent and careless. These passengers may damage the automobile during their journey. So, the maintenance charges will be higher. There will be higher downtime and reduced profits.
Challenges with driverless cars used for emergencies
Erratic driving is an issue, which goes against the law. The investigation is essential in driving-related problems. Police often use a speaker to send a warning message to drivers. But, if there are no drivers, police cannot do it efficiently.
Similar problems will be encountered by ambulances. When a passenger has a medical issue, the car needs to identify the exact location for his convenience.
Is there any solution to the problems?
The best solution for autonomous car challenges is to engage a remote human operator. If there are efficient human drivers, the above issues will not cause a concern. Autonomy will not settle those problems. The automotive industry needs to understand the significance of human beings in operating the vehicle safely and efficiently. Teleoperation will be the right solution for problems related to autonomous cars.
Conclusion
Both consumers and automakers are excited to make fully self-driving cars a reality. But, it will bring several challenges. Many automakers and automotive experts have claimed removing the human driver from the car will cause a number of issues. However, the main goal of automotive brands is to provide the best customer experience. They have identified some potential issues with customer satisfaction about the level of autonomy. So, it may take time to overcome autonomous vehicle-related challenges and make self-driving vehicles highly acceptable.
