The technology is based on Audi’s adaptive cruise control with stop go function, and is enhanced by a lateral guidance system. Two radar sensors monitor an area up to 250 meters (820.21 ft) ahead of the vehicle at a 35-degree scanning angle. A wide-angle video camera monitors the lane markings and can also detect objects such as other vehicles, pedestrians and guardrails.
Eight ultrasonic sensors monitor the zones directly in front of the car and at its corners. There is also a laser scanner that supplies high-precision data gathered at an angle of about 140 degrees and as far as 80 meters (262.47 ft) ahead of the front of the car. In the words of Audi Board of Management Chairman Rupert Stadler: “We are greatly honored to be included in the group of the world’s most innovative companies. It shows that Audi is well equipped for the future.”
“As summed up in its slogan ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’, Audi is up among the leaders in the integration of electronic and electromechanical systems,” says Wolfgang Dürheimer, Board Member Technical Development, AUDI AG. “Piloted driving is a logical step for Audi, based on the in-car assistance systems already in use.”
Audi already plays a leading role in the premium segment with extensive safety, comfort and convenience equipment and tailor-made Internet services on its cars. Under the heading ‘Audi connect’ the company offers its customers integrated services that include traffic information online, Google Earth and Street View, weather, airline and railroad data and links with social media services such as Facebook and Twitter.
“MIT Technology Review” magazine was launched in 1899 at the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and is regarded as one of the world’s leading publications of its kind. Every year the magazine’s editors select the most innovative companies to join their list of “50 Disruptive Companies”. The list includes companies whose innovations, according to the magazine, have the potential to have a lasting effect on life around the world. International corporations such as Apple, Samsung and GE have already been added to the “50 Disruptive Companies”.
Inclusion in the MIT list of “50 Disruptive Companies” is the third award gained by Audi’s piloted driving technology. In January the US magazine “Popular Science” chose the Audi piloted parking system for garage parking facilities as its “Product of the Future”, and the specialized media network “The Verge” acknowledged the new Audi system to be “Best Automotive Technology” at this year’s CES.