Nissan is set to revolutionize the driving experience with its next-generation ProPilot advanced driver assistance system (ADAS), slated for release in 2027. This innovative suite promises to enhance vehicle safety and convenience by leveraging cutting-edge sensor technology and artificial intelligence. The new ProPilot system aims to provide drivers with a more intuitive and responsive driving experience, setting a new benchmark in the realm of autonomous driving capabilities.
Image of Nissan ProPilot system in action. Source: Nissan
The next-generation ProPilot system is built upon a foundation of advanced sensor technology. This includes a Lidar sensor, multiple radar units, and a suite of high-resolution cameras strategically positioned around the vehicle. These sensors work in concert to create a comprehensive 360-degree view of the car’s surroundings. This detailed environmental awareness is crucial for the system to accurately perceive and react to potential hazards on the road.
At the heart of ProPilot is what Nissan calls “ground truth perception technology.” This system leverages the sensor data to predict the movement of objects and pedestrians in the vehicle’s path. By anticipating potential collisions, the system can proactively take measures to avoid accidents, enhancing overall safety for both the driver and other road users.
| Sensor Type | Quantity | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Lidar | 1 | Provides high-resolution 3D mapping of surroundings |
| Surround Cameras | 9 | Offers a 360-degree view of the vehicle’s environment |
| Long-Range Radars | 2 (Rear) | Detects objects at a distance, especially behind the vehicle |
A key component of Nissan’s next-generation ProPilot is the AI Driver software developed by Wayve, a UK-based startup. This software is designed to process the vast amounts of data collected by the vehicle’s sensors and make real-time decisions to avoid collisions. Unlike some ADAS systems that rely on high-resolution mapping data, Wayve’s AI is trained on extensive real-world driving experiences, enabling it to handle complex and unpredictable scenarios more effectively.
Wayve’s AI Driver software is designed to mimic human-like driving behavior, allowing the vehicle to navigate challenging situations without driver intervention. This includes scenarios such as avoiding a car backing out of a driveway or reacting to a child running into the street. Nissan’s demonstration videos showcase the prototype’s ability to handle these situations with remarkable competence.
Wayve’s AI Driver in action with Nissan ProPilot. Source: Automotive IT
Despite its advanced capabilities, Nissan’s next-generation ProPilot will still be classified as a Level 2 system on the SAE’s Levels of Driving Automation chart. This means that the system cannot drive the car without human supervision. The driver must remain attentive and ready to take control of the vehicle at any time. While ProPilot can assist with steering, acceleration, and braking, it is not a fully autonomous driving system.
It’s important to note that while Nissan aims to set a “new standard for autonomous driving” with its collision avoidance capabilities, the system’s Level 2 classification means it’s designed to enhance safety and convenience, not to replace the driver. The future of autonomous driving is steadily advancing, and Nissan’s ProPilot represents a significant step forward in this ongoing evolution. The system uses a front-mounted Lidar, nine surround cameras, and two long-range rear radars.
