Summary
- Volvo’s EX90 has the necessary hardware for unsupervised autonomous driving
- The software for unsupervised autonomous driving on the EX90 is not yet ready and does not have an expected release date
- The EX90 has cameras for autonomous driving, similar to Tesla’s approach
- Volvo’s deployment of autonomous capabilities will be gradual and limited to certain urban highways
- The EX90’s autonomous system will require drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road, while also warning if the driver is focusing too much on the road
Article
Volvo Ex90 Hardware Ready for Autonomy
Volvo has stated that the EX90 has all the necessary hardware for autonomous driving, but the software is still pending approval by regulators. The company is focusing on highway driving capabilities for the near future and has not given a specific timeline for the release of the autonomous driving software. The availability of autonomous driving in the EX90 will vary based on regulations in different regions and countries.
Camera Technology for Autonomous Driving
The Volvo EX90 is equipped with a long-range rear-facing camera and an additional front windshield camera for future autonomous driving use. This setup is similar to what Tesla has been advocating since 2016, with Elon Musk claiming that Tesla cars have the necessary hardware for complete autonomy. However, Volvo’s approach is more conservative and aligned with traditional automakers, avoiding wild-west, unsupervised beta testing on public roads.
Gradual Rollout of Autonomous Driving
Volvo plans to roll out its autonomous driving capabilities gradually on certain urban highways under limited conditions. The company aims to avoid confusion regarding driver supervision by categorizing driving modes as supervised or unsupervised. While other manufacturers like Tesla, GM, and Ford offer hands-off driving systems that still require driver attention, Volvo is opting for a more controlled approach.
Driver Supervision and System Intervention
Volvo’s EX90 will require drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road until the company is ready to take full responsibility for the car’s actions. The system will warn drivers if they are focusing on the road for extended periods. This cautious approach contrasts with Tesla’s more ambitious timeline for autonomy and Volvo’s previous goal of zero deaths or serious injuries in its vehicles by 2020.
Long-term Autonomy Goal
Unlike Tesla, Volvo is not providing a specific timeline for the launch of autonomous driving capabilities in the EX90, emphasizing that it will happen eventually without committing to a set date. The company is working to address basic software issues before moving forward with larger ambitions in autonomous driving technology. Despite the careful approach, there is still skepticism about Volvo’s plan due to past challenges and uncertainties in achieving ambitious safety goals.
Conclusion
Volvo’s EX90 model is equipped with all the necessary hardware for autonomous driving, but the software is pending approval from regulators and will be rolled out gradually in line with regional regulations. The company’s cautious approach to autonomy and focus on safety differentiate it from other manufacturers, although challenges and uncertainties remain in achieving long-term goals. While Volvo’s timeline for autonomous driving is not set in stone, the company is committed to advancing technology in a responsible manner.
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