How is AI used in the automotive industry?
With each passing year, automotive technology continues to advance in remarkable ways, making both passenger cars and the most reliable SUVs better and more dependable. Artificial intelligence (AI) is at the forefront of this progress, driving improvements in efficiency, safety, and user experience. This article explores how AI is shaping the future of the automotive industry.
Current applications of AI in vehicles
Not long ago, cars simply rolled off production lines. Today, we have self-driving cars and even the prospect of flying vehicles. Let’s explore the current uses of AI in today’s vehicles:
Autonomous vehicles
Self-driving cars, like Tesla’s Autopilot or Waymo’s fleet, are powered by AI. These vehicles use sensors, data processing, and decision-making algorithms to mimic human split-second decisions, enabling them to navigate roads with minimal human intervention.
Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)
ADAS enhances vehicle safety by using automated systems to alert drivers to potential hazards. Features include traffic signal recognition, forward collision warnings, adaptive cruise control, and traction control. These systems aim to improve reaction times and prevent accidents.
Infotainment systems
AI powers voice recognition features in infotainment systems, allowing drivers to control navigation, play music, or have messages read aloud — all hands-free, keeping their focus on the road.
Predictive maintenance
AI-driven predictive maintenance helps minimize vehicle breakdowns. Sensors monitor system performance and provide proactive alerts for potential issues, enabling repairs before major failures occur.
In-car personalization
AI enhances the driving experience through personalized settings, voice-activated controls, and virtual assistants. For example, Mercedes-Benz’s User Experience (MBUX) system integrates ChatGPT-powered AI to assist drivers in real-time.
AI and vehicle connectivity
AI also plays a significant role in vehicle connectivity, enhancing safety and efficiency.
Internet of things (IoT)
By 2025, an estimated 2 billion connected vehicles will be on the road. IoT allows vehicles to communicate with surrounding devices and infrastructure, such as traffic lights, to improve safety and optimize traffic flow.
Vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication
V2V communication enables cars to share real-time safety information, like road hazards, with other vehicles nearby. This networked approach supports autonomous driving and fleet coordination, often referred to as “flocking.”
Key players and notable advancements
Two companies leading the charge in AI-driven automotive advancements are Tesla and Waymo:
Tesla’s autopilot
Tesla’s Autopilot is an advanced driver-assistance system that enhances safety and convenience. Standard on all Tesla models, it uses external cameras and vision processing to assist with lane changes, parking, and recognizing traffic signals. Tesla also offers a Full Self-Driving package for a higher level of autonomy.
Waymo’s self-driving technology
Waymo, a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., operates a driverless ride-hailing service. Currently active in San Francisco and Phoenix, Waymo’s AI-powered vehicles aim to provide safe, reliable transportation without human drivers, with expansion planned for Los Angeles and Austin.
The road to fully autonomous vehicles
The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) defines vehicle autonomy in six levels, ranging from 0 (fully manual) to 5 (fully autonomous):
- Level 0: No automation
- Level 1: Driver assistance (e.g., cruise control)
- Level 2: Partial automation (e.g., ADAS)
- Level 3: Conditional automation (e.g., performs most driving tasks but requires human override)
- Level 4: High automation (e.g., human override optional under certain conditions)
- Level 5: Full automation (e.g., no human intervention required)
As we move toward Level 5 autonomy, challenges like regulatory hurdles, technological advancements, and ethical considerations remain. However, the progress so far highlights AI’s transformative power in shaping the future of mobility.
