Self-driving vehicle

A self-driving vehicle, also known as an autonomous vehicle or driverless car, can navigate and operate without direct human control. Key features:

Use sensors like LIDAR, radar, and cameras to perceive environment
Run artificial intelligence software to process sensor data
Follow digital maps and navigation for driving between destinations
Incorporate machine learning to improve driving skills over time
Offer mobility to non-drivers like the disabled or elderly

Levels of autonomy:

Level 1: Basic driving assistance like automatic braking
Level 2: Steering and acceleration assistance
Level 3: Environmental monitoring with driver ready to take over
Level 4: Fully autonomous within operational constraints
Level 5: Full autonomy with no human involvement needed

While fully autonomous cars don't yet exist, continual progress is being made in research and development by companies like Waymo, Cruise, and Tesla. Regulatory hurdles around safety and liability must be overcome before widespread adoption.