Audi has commenced testing of A7 concept car fitted with self-driving gear on a 550-mile piloted drive from San Francisco Bay to Las Vegas, which will be showcased at the CES 2015 (Consumer Electronics Show).
The A7 concept uses production ready sensor technologies created by Audi, and it is capable of accelerating from 0 to 70 mph, or just over 110 km/h without a driver.
The car dubbed 'Jack' is also capable of initiating lane changes, passing maneuvers, and apply brakes independently.
The concept car consists of various sensors including long range radar sensors of the adaptive cruise control (ACC) along with Audi side assist (ASA) which is designed to keep a watch on the front and rear of the vehicle.
At the front and rear of the car two mid-range radar sensors have been used, which completes the 360 degree view of the vehicle's surrounding.
To provide detailed recognition of static and dynamic objects during piloted driving, Audi has fitted the A7 with laser scanners within the Singleframe grille and the rear bumper skirt.
Audi has also used a 3D video camera, which takes a wide-angle view out in front of the vehicle.
The concept car is equipped with multiple warning signals including colored LEDs at the base of the windshield, Central Status Indicator, and acoustic warning indicator which asks the driver to take control of the vehicle in certain situations.
If the driver fails to respond to the warnings then the car will come to an automatic stop.
Image: Start of the 550 mile piloted drive of Audi A7 concept car. Photo: courtesy of Audi AG.
