Self-Driving Car Technology News and Update: Can an iPhone Drive Your Car? Land Rover Unveils Discovery Vision Concept
Land Rover unveils its latest concept car that boasts variety of innovative functions, including the ability to remotely drive the vehicle with a smartphone.
The Discovery Vision Concept features certainly impressive gadgets, such as laser positioning sensors, gesture-controlled systems, and an "invisible" bonnet that allows the driver to see through the car to the ground beneath. The see-through bonnet combines cameras in the grille and head-up display technology on the windscreen, capturing images of the terrain immediately ahead -- this can help the driver to spot and avoid the potholes.
However, the most noteworthy development is remote-control drive, which allows anyone to drive the 4x4 "at very low speed while not actually seated inside it." Land Rover claims that the system could be used both on and off-road, from coupling a trailer to spotting obstacles during extreme off-road driving. Dubbed as All-Terrain Progress Control, the off-road remote operation function will be "semi-autonomous." It is further helped by "Wade Aid," which measures depth in patches of water to prevent the vehicle from getting stuck.
The concept car has a huge boot and seating for up to seven, as well as doors that open with just the swipe of your hand with arrangement operated by touchscreen. Also, visibility is boosted with the use of the laser headlamps, which feature smart object tracking and beam-dipping to improve driver safety.
"The Discovery Concept vehicle represents a Vision of our future family of leisure SUVs," said Gerry McGovern, design director and chief creative officer at Land Rover. "Its modern, relevant and compelling design is a significant shift from Discovery as we know it, while well considered practicality, configurability and Land Rover's capability seamlessly blend to create a highly desirable vehicle that connects on an emotional level."
The first car will be based on the current Range Rover Evoque, and it will go on sale later next year with an estimated starting price of $50,100.