“Nissan’s Autonomous Technology Undergoes Testing on Urban Roads”
Nissan begins testing driverless technology in Yokohama with plans to reach Level Four automation by 2029 or 2030, showcasing progress in Japanese self-driving systems.
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Nissan, the Japanese automaker, has started testing autonomous vehicle technology on the busy streets of Yokohama, showcasing the progress made in self-driving systems. A recent demonstration featured Nissan’s Serena minivan, outfitted with 14 cameras and advanced sensors using radar and LiDAR technologies.
Radar, which utilizes radio waves, identifies object positions, while LiDAR, a light-based technology, creates detailed 3D maps of the surroundings. This marks a significant step in Japan’s slower development of driverless systems compared to the U.S. and China.
In a separate development, Google’s Waymo is poised to enter Japan through a partnership with Nihon Kotsu, a Japanese taxi company, to test Waymo’s electric Jaguar I-PACE vehicles. Notably, Nissan’s testing involves a human driver being present to take control if necessary, a common theme in self-driving trials.
On the autonomous journey, Nissan’s testing monitored from headquarters ensures safety, with a technician ready to intervene if needed. The vehicle’s path is set using a smartphone app, and it operates within the area’s speed limits, showcasing smooth integration into real-world settings.
Takeshi Kimura, an engineer spearheading Nissan’s self-driving technology, emphasized the need for automakers’ expertise in developing such systems, stressed by a deep understanding of overall vehicle functionality.
Looking ahead, Nissan aims to have at least 20 testing vehicles operational in Yokohama, with the goal of achieving Level Four autonomy by 2029-2030, eliminating the need for human intervention. Meanwhile, other Japanese players like Tier IV and Toyota are actively exploring related technologies, pushing the boundaries of innovation.
Toyota’s Woven City research center, focusing on robotics, AI, and self-driving tech, complements the industry’s efforts towards a future where driverless vehicles become the norm. With Japan approving Level Four driverless vehicles in select areas, the country’s automotive landscape heralds an exciting era of autonomous mobility.
Published on: 2025-03-13 22:30:00 | Author:
