An Autonomous Driving System (ADS) refers to the hardware and software collectively capable of performing the entire Dynamic Driving Task (DDT) on a sustained basis—that is, conducting all real-time operational and tactical driving functions required for on-road vehicle operation, such as steering, accelerating, braking, monitoring the environment, and responding to external conditions without human input. Unlike Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), which support or augment a human driver, an ADS controls the vehicle independently, potentially transforming passengers into non-driving occupants.
The definition of ADS is aligned with the SAE International Standard J3016, which splits vehicle automation into levels (0-5). ADS functionality begins at Level 3 (“Conditional Automation”) and includes Levels 4 (“High Automation”) and 5 (“Full Automation”). At these levels, an ADS performs all driving tasks:
At Level 3, the ADS can control the vehicle in certain conditions, but may request human intervention when needed.
At Level 4, it handles all driving functions within a defined operational domain, such as specific urban or shuttle environments.
At Level 5, ADS enables full autonomy in any environment, eliminating the need for a steering wheel or human driver controls.
Key Components and Technologies:
Sensors: Cameras, LiDAR, radar, ultrasonic, and GPS for environmental perception.
Computing Systems: High-performance processors running machine learning and computer vision algorithms for real-time decision making.
Actuators: Mechanisms to control steering, acceleration, and braking automatically.
Purpose and Benefits:
Designed to reduce human error, the leading cause of road accidents, and improve road safety and accessibility.
Holds promise for enhanced mobility options, including for individuals unable to drive.
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