Autonomous vehicles are equipped with advanced technology that allows them to navigate and operate without the need for a human driver. While the concept of autonomous vehicles may seem futuristic, they are quickly becoming a reality as more and more companies invest in technology. TimesTech spoke to Arindam Lahiri, CEO, Automotive Skill Development Council (ASDC) to learn about the significance of Autonomous Vehicles in India and the regulatory environment needed for it.
Read the full interview here:
TimesTech: What are the safety benefits of autonomous vehicles?
Arindam: Autonomous vehicles have the potential to offer several safety benefits, such as reducing the risk of human error, which is a major factor in many traffic accidents. Because autonomous vehicles are able to sense their surroundings and make decisions based on that information, they can potentially react faster and more accurately than human drivers in many situations. This can help to prevent accidents and keep people safe on the road. Additionally, because autonomous vehicles can be programmed to follow traffic laws and regulations, they may be less likely to engage in risky behaviours such as speeding or aggressive driving. Overall, the use of autonomous vehicles has the potential to make our roads safer for everyone.
TimesTech: Can the technology associated with autonomous vehicles be considered a panacea for driver errors that lead to accidents?
Arindam: While the technology associated with autonomous vehicles has the potential to greatly enhance road safety, it is not a panacea for all driver errors that lead to accidents. Autonomous vehicles are still subject to certain limitations and constraints, and they are not able to anticipate or avoid every potential accident scenario. Additionally, the development and deployment of autonomous vehicle technology is a complex and ongoing process, and there will likely be challenges and setbacks along the way. Therefore, it is important to approach the use of autonomous vehicles with realistic expectations, and to continue to work towards improving the technology and ensuring its safe operation.
For example, autonomous vehicles may still be susceptible to accidents caused by malfunctioning sensors or other hardware failures. Additionally, there may still be situations where the algorithms used by self-driving cars are unable to make the correct decision, leading to accidents.
TimesTech: Are higher levels of autonomous vehicles possible? What are the challenges ahead?
Arindam: Higher levels of autonomy for vehicles are certainly possible, and many companies and research organizations are working towards this goal. Autonomous vehicles are typically classified according to a six-level scale, with Level 0 representing no automation and Level 5 representing full automation. Currently, most commercially available autonomous vehicles are at Level 2 or Level 3, which means that they are able to assist the driver with certain tasks, but the driver is still required to pay attention to the road and be prepared to take control if necessary. Higher levels of autonomy, such as Level 4 and Level 5, would allow vehicles to operate without any human input or intervention, under certain conditions.
However, there are several challenges that must be overcome in order to achieve fully autonomous vehicles. These challenges include:
- Develop advanced algorithms and sensors that can accurately perceive and understand the vehicle’s surroundings in real time
- Ensuring the reliability and safety of autonomous vehicle systems, including robust fail-safe mechanisms and redundant systems
- Addressing the ethical and legal implications of autonomous vehicle technology, including issues such as liability and decision-making in complex or hazardous situations
- Overcoming technical and logistical challenges, such as ensuring that autonomous vehicles can operate in a wide range of environments and weather conditions
- Addressing concerns and skepticism from the public about the safety and reliability of autonomous vehicles.
In order to achieve higher levels of autonomy, it will be necessary to continue researching and developing new technologies, as well as addressing these challenges through collaboration and dialogue between industry, academia, and the broader community.
TimesTech: How will the demand and market for autonomous vehicles change in India?
Arindam: It is difficult to predict with certainty how the demand and market for autonomous vehicles will evolve in India. The adoption of autonomous vehicle technology will depend on a variety of factors, including the availability and affordability of the technology, the regulatory environment, and the willingness of consumers to embrace this new form of transportation. Additionally, the market for autonomous vehicles in India will likely be shaped by broader trends in the automotive industry, such as the transition towards electric vehicles and the increasing emphasis on shared mobility services.
It is likely that the demand and market for autonomous vehicles in India will grow over time, as the technology matures and becomes more widely available. However, the exact trajectory of this growth will depend on a range of factors and will evolve over time.
TimesTech: How can government policy and support further ensure autonomous vehicle safety and market in India?
Arindam: Government policy and support can play a crucial role in promoting the safety and market development of autonomous vehicles in India. Some specific ways that the government could support the development of autonomous vehicle technology in India include:
- Establishing clear and consistent regulations and standards for the testing, deployment, and operation of autonomous vehicles, to ensure their safety and reliability.
- Providing funding and other forms of support for research and development of autonomous vehicle technology, to accelerate the pace of innovation and help Indian companies and researchers compete on the global stage.
- Working with industry stakeholders and other interested parties to develop programs and initiatives that promote the adoption of autonomous vehicles, such as public-private partnerships and demonstration projects.
- Engaging in dialogue and collaboration with other countries and regions that are also pursuing the development of autonomous vehicle technology, in order to share best practices and learn from each other’s experiences.
- Educating the public about the potential benefits and challenges of autonomous vehicle technology, in order to foster understanding and support for its development.
Overall, a proactive and supportive approach from the government can help to ensure the safe and successful deployment of autonomous vehicle technology in India.
