New simulator maps out the road ahead for autonomous vehicle technology

AN important tool in the drive to pioneer autonomous vehicle technology has been launched by WMG at the University of Warwick.

The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)-funded 3xD Simulator is the world’s most adaptable vehicle simulator.

The only simulator of its kind, the machine is designed specifically to test the real-world capabilities of connected and autonomous vehicle technology.

The simulator is the centrepiece of the Virtual Reality Centre in the National Automotive Innovation Centre – a long term commitment between Jaguar Land Rover, WMG and Tata Motors European Technical Centre.

To underline its significant to the future of the automotive industry, officially attending the launch was the chief executive of Jaguar Land Rover, Dr Ralf Speth.

The machine will help designers understand how autonomous vehicles cope with complex driving scenarios, changing lighting conditions, communications interference or unexpected events.

The aim is to create a virtual world where next generation protocols can be developed. This will include the capability to replicate GPS or 4G signal loss, or even simulate a cyber-attack.

The success of autonomous technologies – and whether the public accepts them – will depend upon how quickly safe, secure and robust programmes can be implemented.

WMG said testing these technologies on-road in real-world driving situations was often complex and uncontrollable for early stage development. Therefore, any measures to reduce early risk were important.

Dr Speth said: “Together Jaguar Land Rover and WMG will work to develop the next generation of ideas in key areas such as connectivity, Intelligent Vehicles and Connected and Autonomous technologies. Industry leading simulators like this one will give our research teams a crucial advantage in developing new vehicles that are truly driver focused.”

Professor Lord Bhattacharyya, chairman of WMG, said: “There is an ambition to have totally driverless cars by 2030. To make this a reality companies need to invest in R&D.

“We’re collaborating with the automotive sector, from global companies to SMEs, through intelligent manufacturing to help design this next generation of vehicles.”

Prof Paul Jennings, WMG lead on intelligent vehicle research, added: “I am looking forward to using this advanced simulator to better understand smart and connected vehicles in a safe, repeatable and realistic virtual environment.

“We want to help our industry partners accelerate the introduction of this exciting new technology, so that we can all reap the many benefits as soon as possible. Improvements in safety and comfort, and reductions in congestion and energy use will all be made possible.”