Land Rover’s self-learning vehicle
Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) is developing what it calls “a truly intelligent self-learning vehicle” that could help prevent crashes by reducing driver-distraction.
The aim is to minimise driver distraction, recognise the driver and learn the driving style. The car will basically be using artificial intelligence and offer an array of services based on an algorithm that recognises who is behind the wheel and what their preferences and driving style are.
Director of research and technology for JLR, Wolfgang Epple, said: “The aim of our self-learning technology is to minimise driver-distraction, which will help reduce the risk of a crash. Presenting the driver with information just at the right time will reduce both cognitive distraction and the need for the driver to look away from the road to scroll through phone lists or adjust mirrors, cabin temperature or seat functions while on the road.”
So, how does this differ from other self-learning cars? Well JLR says that most other self-learning cars focus on traffic or navigation prediction. They want to take this idea a significant step further and the new learning algorithm means information learned about you will deliver a completely personalised driving experience and enhance driving pleasure.
The car will recognise each driver by smartphone and adjusted mirrors, steering-wheel and seat to his or her preferences. The cabin can pre-set to a desired temperature and is intelligent enough to change it if the weather is hot, cold or raining.
This might be the next best thing for busy mommies or just anyone too busy to remember their own schedule. Through the ‘Smart Assistant’ function, the car will review your schedule for the day and set the GPS according to traffic to avoid congestion. According to JLR, its self-learning car can determine whether you’re going to the gym, if you use the massage function at a particular time or location on a journey, the car will be able to predict this as well.
The car will also be able to recognise every passenger and offer each his or her preferred infotainment options. The ‘Smart Assistant’ will review your calendar and remind you before you leave the house via a message on your smartphone to collect your children’s sport kit as it “knows” you will need to attend their sports event.
If you usually make a phone call at a certain time or on a particular journey the car will predict this and offer to make the call. If you are going to be late for work it will offer to email or call ahead with minimal or no interaction from the driver.
All this may be seen as a blessing, but also begs the question: Are cars getting too technologically advanced? You wouldn’t want to be hijacked by a hacker…