Nissan Unveils Innovative Self-Driving Technology on the Streets of Japan
Nissan is making strides in the field of autonomous vehicles with exciting advancements in its new mobility service. The company recently conducted a significant test using its popular minivan, the Nissan Serena, in Yokohama’s Minato Mirai district. This bustling urban area is known for its high traffic and numerous pedestrians, presenting a challenging backdrop for testing driverless technology. The initiative aims to tackle transportation issues in Japan, particularly the shortages of drivers attributed to the nation’s aging population and declining birth rates.
During this recent test, the Nissan Serena navigated city streets without a human driver, operating within a speed limit of 25 miles per hour. The minivan’s autonomous capabilities are supported by an array of high-tech sensors: 14 cameras, nine radar units, and six LiDar sensors mounted on the roof. This configuration allows for extensive environmental detection, especially beneficial given the Serena’s elevated design. Moreover, artificial intelligence enhances the vehicle’s ability to recognize and respond to its surroundings effectively.
Prior to the test, Nissan’s engineers prepared extensively, simulating various scenarios to ensure the vehicle could handle unexpected events, such as the need for emergency stops. The entire operation was closely monitored from a distance, with a remote operator able to take control if necessary. While there was no human behind the wheel, a trained engineer occupied the front passenger seat as an additional safety measure.
To develop this advanced technology, Nissan has utilized resources from its research efforts in both Japan and Silicon Valley, and has collaborated with the UK’s evolvAD project, which is supported by the government. Despite the progress Nissan has made, it is essential to note that competitors like Waymo are currently ahead in the race for full autonomy.
Waymo, a self-driving technology company backed by Google, has been operating its autonomous mobility service in several major U.S. cities, including Phoenix, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. Their fleet of all-electric Jaguar I-PACE SUVs operates at Level 4 autonomy, where the vehicle can navigate without any human assistance, even remotely.
As Nissan eyes the competition, it recognizes the challenges ahead. Waymo, for example, is set to test its services in Japan later this year in partnership with Nihon Kotsu, a major taxi company. Initial testing in Tokyo will involve a human driver present in the vehicle. However, Nissan’s Mobility and AI Laboratory engineer, Takeshi Kimura, remains optimistic, arguing that Nissan’s strong automotive background allows for a more natural integration of autonomous technology into its vehicles.
Looking forward, Nissan plans to expand its tests, aiming to involve 20 vehicles during the fiscal years of 2025 to 2026, with an eye on launching its autonomous mobility service by 2027. The company hopes to achieve Level 4 autonomy, which allows for self-driving capabilities under certain conditions, by 2029 or 2030. Currently, Japanese regulations permit Level 4 self-driving only for specific, low-speed shuttle services in designated areas like Fukui Prefecture and around Tokyo’s Haneda Airport.
Understanding the levels of automotive autonomy is essential. The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) categorizes self-driving capabilities on a scale from Level 1 to Level 5, with Level 5 indicating full autonomy in all driving conditions without any human intervention. Meanwhile, Nissan’s recent tests in Yokohama are classified as Level 2 autonomy. This designation reflects the vehicle’s reliance on remote human oversight, which is a key reason it does not achieve higher levels.
As Nissan continues to develop its autonomous vehicle technology, it positions itself to compete with major players in the industry. Its experience and commitment to innovation could play a crucial role in shaping the future of transportation in Japan and beyond.
