Nissan is accelerating its efforts toward creating a safer, cleaner, and more inclusive transportation system, leveraging autonomous driving technology as one of the fundamental pillars of this transformation. The company’s ambition aligns with its vision for 2030, aiming for a world without road accidents and fatalities, where driving becomes safer and more pleasurable due to advanced innovations.
Since beginning its autnomous driving research in the United Kingdom back in 2017, Nissan has undertaken several pivotal projects, including Humandrive and Servcity, to refine the capabilities of its autonomous driving (AD) systems. These projects have focused on enhancing the technology’s reliability and efficiency across various driving contexts.
Currently, Nissan’s Evolvad program marks the next phase of this initiative, concentrating on testing autonomous systems under complex scenarios, such as residential and rural roads. The goal is to determine how well these systems can navigate the day-to-day challenges of traffic and improve the overall driving experience.
But how will autonomous driving technology impact everyday mobility? Nissan identifies three principal benefits expected to emerge over the coming years from its deployment. Firstly, the testing of AD technology, particularly through Nissan's LEAF electric vehicles, is not just about making driving easier but also aims to increase energy efficiency regardless of the vehicle type.
This technology could lead to optimized route planning, resulting in less time spent idling, thereby reducing energy consumption and emissions. By facilitating smoother braking patterns, it could also prolong the lifespan of brake pads and minimize particulate emissions, making for cleaner air.
Data indicates human error remains one of the leading causes of road accidents. Research conducted shows about 71% of accidents in the UK during 2023 can be traced back to distractions or misjudgments by drivers. Autonomous driving technology stands ready to eliminate these risks; it’s engineered to remain alert at all times, impervious to fatigue, distractions, or slowed reflexes.
By continuously monitoring the surrounding environment, autonomous systems have the potential to prevent collisions, adapt to traffic situations, and swiftly respond to any imminent dangers, thereby enhancing safety on the roads for everyone.
Beyond safety, Nissan is also addressing significant mobility accessibility challenges. Approximately 129 million citizens across Europe reside in areas lacking adequate public transport coverage. Alarmingly, among the elderly and disabled population, one out of every four individuals tends to avoid public transit due to accessibility barriers. Here, autonomous driving could bridge the gap, offering reliable transportation solutions to many who struggle with everyday mobility.
This innovative technology allows for reduced dependence on traditional transport means, opening up new avenues for mobility, especially for those living in rural areas, and improving the quality of life for millions.
Autonomous driving is more than just technological advancement; it’s poised to revolutionize how we travel. With safety, sustainability, and inclusivity at its core, this future-focused approach promises to make roads safer, air cleaner, and transportation accessible for all. Through initiatives like Evolvad, Nissan is paving the way toward this promising future, committed to developing cutting-edge technologies to improve lives worldwide.
