Will autonomous cars work in the dark?
Many autonomous cars use camera systems that read the white lines painted on the roads and use this information to aid with navigation. However, a system like this has an obvious limitation: they need light. So will autonomous cars work in the dark? Ford is attempting to tackle this problem, developing an autonomous system that will work even in the dark.
Ford recently spent several Arizona nights prowling the roads under the desert skies in an autonomous Ford Fusion Hybrid. The results of the tests were an outstanding success. Without any kind of light source, the Fusion was able to flawlessly navigate.
Read More: Ford has been testing autonomous cars in the snow as well!
Ford Autonomous LiDAR System
What sets the Ford autonomous vehicles apart from others is the LiDAR system. This revolutionary technology sends out rapid laser pulses, almost three million a second, that are used to form detailed 3D maps of the area around the vehicle. LiDAR is aided by radar sensor systems. Because cameras are not being used, the vehicle does not require any kind of light to navigate. The result is that the autonomous Ford Fusion can function in complete darkness.
Ford Expands Autonomous Fleet
Ford has demonstrated a great commitment towards the continued development of new autonomous technologies. The manufacturer recently tripled its autonomous fleet, which now numbers almost 30 vehicles. Much of the technology that has been developed can already be seen on many current Ford vehicles. Systems like adaptive cruise control and automatic braking have their roots in autonomous technology. These safety systems are just one way the technology can be utilized.
Developments like these show how much of a reality self-driving cars are becoming. Something that once seemed like an idea out of a science fiction story may soon be a reality.
For all the latest information on any new Ford autonomous developments, stay posted to the Akins Ford blog. And if you are looking for a great new or used Ford vehicle, take a look at our selection or come on in for a test drive.
