Swedish manufacturer Volvo is one of the leading proponents of autonomous vehicles, recently embarking on a partnership with local telecoms equipment firm Ericsson, to focus on high-bandwidth methods on keeping self-driving cars connected while traveling in areas where network coverage is weak or spotty.
The software platform developed by Ericsson allows seamless transmission, video segmentation, network optimization and understanding of real-time traffic data to enhance the user experience while traveling. Its open nature allows other partners to build various applications to benefit the passengers.
Diomedes Kastanis, CTO Software Solutions, Ericsson said, "Ericsson's platform can use analytics for a range of use cases, including suggesting media content to fit the length of a planned route. We are taking an expansive, innovative approach to autonomous cars, treating them as Internet of Things (IoT) devices that are made smarter by our powerful, analytics-driven approach.”
Improved connectivity isn’t just limited to media and entertainment, but also has impact on safety features. Volvo became one of the first auto makers to
announce that it would fully insure its own cars by taking “full liability” when they are in self-driving mode.
Moreover, self driving cars may soon be given the same
legal recognition as a human car driver, according to a recent letter sent by the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to Google, which is developing its own model of autonomous vehicle.
