TOKYO, Dec 1 (Reuters) – Honda (7267.T) stated it could develop know-how enabling its degree 3 self-driving functionality to perform at any velocity under authorized limits on highways by the second half of the 2020s because it strives to eradicate site visitors deaths involving its autos.
Honda Motor Co Ltd in March 2021 grew to become the world’s first carmaker to promote a automobile with degree 3 self-driving know-how.
Also referred to as conditional driving automation, degree 3 includes know-how that enable drivers to interact in actions behind the wheel, resembling watching films or utilizing smartphones, however solely below some restricted situations.
Honda’s degree 3 “Site visitors Jam Pilot” system can kick in at speeds under 30 km (19 miles) per hour on highways, remaining operational till the velocity picks as much as 50 km per hour.
“We consider we might help cut back accidents by pursuing degree 3 know-how, which in essence is about vehicles that don’t crash,” Honda engineer Mahito Shikama instructed reporters on Tuesday. The announcement was embargoed till Thursday.
Honda is aiming for a zero-fatality charge from site visitors accidents involving its vehicles and bikes globally by 2050.
Shikama declined to say how quickly Honda would begin mass-producing its degree 3 self-driving autos. When the Japanese carmaker launched its Legend sedan with degree 3 automation know-how final yr, manufacturing was restricted to 100 items.
Amongst its rivals, Mercedes-Benz (MBGn.DE) late final yr gained approval from Germany’s KBA automotive watchdog for its degree 3 driving system.
Reporting by Kiyoshi Takenaka
Modifying by Bernadette Baum
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