Today Volkswagen debuted their new Temporary Auto Pilot autonomous driving system. Like similar program that Volvo and Google have been developing over the past few years, the Volkswagen system is presently intended for auto assist and collision prevention, but not as fully automated point A to point B robotic chauffeur.
“What we have achieved today is an important milestone on the path towards accident-free driving,” said Volkswagen Group research president Dr. Jürgen Leohold. “Nonetheless, the driver always retains driving responsibility and is always in control,” Leohold said. “The driver can override or deactivate the system at any time and must continually monitor it.”
Volkswagen’s Temporary Auto Pilot (TAP) system utilizes a series of cameras and motion sensors to maintain control of the vehicle at speeds upwards of 80 mph. The system combines existing semi-autonomous features such as lane-keep assist and adaptive cruise control, then refines and integrates it into a mother program that accelerates, brakes and steers. It is markedly different from other VW autonomous vehicles such as the Stanley, recognized for its role in the DARPA challenge, in that it very much requires driver supervision.
Phoenix Valley auto enthusiasts should keep an eye out for new elements of the Temporary Auto Pilot system at Phoenix Valley area Volkswagen dealers in the coming years. The Phoenix Valley area, being one of the most driving intensive cities in the country, would make for an ideal American debut location of either a concept or production version of the Temporary Auto Pilot system at this years Phoenix Arizona International Auto Show, taking place at the Phoenix Arizona Convention center over Thanksgiving weekend.
