Continental, a global automotive supplier, has currently completed a two-week endurance assessment in Nevada, U.S., in order to reduce road risks. Automated driving was reinforced on the roads of Nevada, extending up to 6,000-mi.
With this new implementation, the drivers can have reduced stress thereby minimizing risks associated with monotonous driving. However, evaluation was conducted based on the special aspects of driving safety. Nevada is the first state across the US to authorize automated driving on public roads. Tested in Nevada, the highly-automated driving concept was formulated based on the experience and knowledge attained from the winner car of the DARPA Urban Challenge in 2007, and with inspiration from the EU funded research project HAVEit.
Automated System installation includes the MK 100 electronically controllable braking system, a new stereo MFC 300 camera incorporated with sensors that can scrutinize potential obstacles, and an electric power steering (EPS). The equipment installed in Continental's research vehicle is unique and varies from the customized actuators and laser sensors included in other autonomous or highly-automated vehicles.
The Nevada test included observing traffic jam environments. The highly-automated driving system ensures safety in complex situations that lack proper indications such as absence of road-markings; tight bends etc., In such cases, the system will automatically be turned off and the driver has to take control over the vehicle. If he fails, the vehicle will be slowed down coming to a halt.
The company intends further development and testing of this automated system by integrating the skill and knowledge included in Continental’s other sites such as Germany, USA, Frankfurt, and Auburn Hills in Michigan. It operates with its ‘accident-free driving’ vision.
Source: http://www.conti-online.com/