Artificial intelligence is becoming more and more prevalent across every sector of every industry, and the automotive sphere is no exception. How exactly is AI technology contributing to smart vehicles?
Artificial intelligence technology has made major improvements to vehicles when it comes to both safety and connectivity. Voice-assistant compatibility, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and predictive maintenance capabilities are only a handful of the features that are now revolutionizing modern-day vehicles with the help of AI.
Below, Mike Ryan of Billings, MT discusses the influence of AI technology on vehicle safety and the overall driving experience.
Notable AI Features in Vehicles
AI features are gaining popularity among professional drivers and the general public alike. Their main benefits involve improvements to safety and connectivity, but the other advantages for the overall driver experience are worth noting as well. Three of the most notable ways artificial intelligence enhances vehicles are through voice assistant compatibility, components of ADAS, and predictive maintenance features.
Voice Assistants
AI-powered voice assistants are nothing new, but their inclusion in smart vehicles elevates the driving experience to a whole different level. While driving, people can use AI voice assistants for calling, music control, GPS navigation, internet searches, and even advanced processes such as controlling car systems (windows, temperature, locks, etc.) and reading an interactive manual if the vehicle is outfitted with these options.
Voice assistants can do a lot to help drivers stay safe on the road, manage the internal environment, improve their connection to the outside world, and experience a better ride overall.
ADAS
ADAS, or advanced driver-assistance systems, is the collective term for features such as adaptive cruise control, traction control, lane departure warnings, automated high beam and windshield wiper systems, collision avoidance, and more.
There’s no guarantee that every smart vehicle will have every ADAS feature, but they each play a major role in improving road safety and assisting drivers with their performance while driving. Not only can these AI systems help prevent accidents, but they can also help people become better overall drivers through improved awareness of their surroundings and vehicle positioning while on the road.
Predictive Maintenance
Most smart vehicles are equipped with sensors and advanced monitoring systems that allow for predictive maintenance. This means that issues such as tire bulges, the need for an oil change, and serious concerns like engine problems will all be caught immediately, rather than leaving problems until a manual inspection has been scheduled or after the driver has been put at risk.
The ability of artificial intelligence to perform this role means smart vehicles will have lower maintenance/repair costs (preventive rather than reactive care), they will be safer to drive, and drivers will have more confidence in the performance and capabilities of their vehicles.
Final Thoughts
As AI advancements continue to be developed, vehicles will become smarter and more capable of autonomous tasks. The safety of self-driving cars is still up for debate, but in the meantime, the features that are driving the industry toward that goal have already had a big impact on drivers around the world. AI is truly the way forward for the betterment of the automotive industry as a whole.
