On the Dash:
- The Volvo-Nvidia partnership expands to develop next-generation driver-assistance and automated-driving technology.
- First deployment will focus on supervised driving, with drivers remaining responsible for the vehicle.
- Technology should arrive in Volvo vehicles before 2030, launching in multiple regions except China.
Volvo Cars is expanding its partnership with Nvidia to develop a new generation of driver-assistance and automated-driving technology, Reuters reported Thursday. Carmakers are racing to bring more advanced hands-free driving features to market.
Volvo will combine its safety systems and engineering expertise with Nvidia’s artificial intelligence and computing technologies, including the Hyperion sensor, computer architecture and autonomous-driving software stack.
The first deployment will focus on supervised driving features, with drivers remaining responsible for the vehicle, Alwin Bakkenes, Volvo Cars’ head of software engineering, told Reuters. Volvo plans to gradually introduce more advanced capabilities, including hands-free driving in urban areas and on highways, Bakkenes said.
The technology should appear in Volvo vehicles before 2030, and launch in multiple regions at the same time, excluding China, Bakkenes said.
Although the automaker hasn’t chosen a pricing model yet, Bakkenes said the features won’t be limited to higher-priced models. Notably, Nvidia says safety is the priority in its work with Volvo. Nvidia has partnerships with a wide range of automakers, including Mercedes, Jaguar Land Rover and Hyundai.
Other automakers, including Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Ford, are targeting more advanced automated-driving systems. Those range from hands-free highway driving to self-driving operations in limited conditions.
Meanwhile, Tesla is seeking broader approval of its assisted-driving technology in Europe, including in urban areas. An EU-wide vote could occur in December.
