Renault has just unveiled an autonomous electric vehicle prototype aimed for commercialization by 2020. The prototype autonomous EV is called the Next Two.
“Using sensor technologies, Next Two enables the delegation of driving functions from the driver to the car in congested traffic up to [30] km/h (18.6 mph) on main roads. It also offers an Automated Valet Parking function which permits the vehicle to park itself completely autonomously in car parks equipped to cater for automated vehicles. This includes both finding a parking place and the necessary maneuvering,” Mike Millikin writes.
Regarding the automated parking, Renault writes: “An Automated Valet Parking function which permits the vehicle to park itself completely autonomously in car parks equipped to cater for automated vehicles. This includes both finding a parking place and the necessary manoeuvring.”
“Thanks to the Next Two autonomous prototype, Renault’s aim is to take up position right now in this field of advanced technology which we believe will reach the marketplace by around 2020,” Renault CEO Carlos Ghosn notes. “With Next Two, we wanted to combine the worlds of delegated driving and connectivity. Not only will autonomous driving enhance safety but it will also free up time for drivers. Being connected will enable them to make the most of this extra time by providing them with access to new in-car services such as video-conferences, on-line shopping, travel information and more.”
Check out Renault’s full report on the Next Two [PDF] for more details on this pioneering autonomous electric vehicle, including some example scenarios and how this vehicle fits into French and international transportation policy.