AliBaba-funded DeepRoute introduces a self-driving answer that doesn’t want HD maps

DeepRoute.ai, a self-driving know-how firm backed by Alibaba Group has unveiled Driver 3.0 answer for automotive makers. The system, in accordance with DeepRoute, eliminates the necessity for high-definition maps, thus facilitating fast and low-cost adoption.
DeepRoute’s earlier effort, Driver 2.0, launched in 2021 for lower than $10,000 and was obtainable in China in manufacturers resembling Ford’s Lincoln and Geometry, which is owned by Volvo dad or mum firm Geely. In Shenzhen, a fleet of 30 robotaxis powered by Driver 2.0 was deployed final yr.
Driver 3.0 will likely be obtainable in passenger autos beginning this yr. The corporate didn’t, nevertheless, title the automaker that may use the brand new answer. With out HD maps, the brand new 3.0 model can generate lane-level info across the automotive in real-time and work together safely with pedestrians and e-bikes. It might probably additionally carry out adaptive cruise management, stop-and-go maneuvers, impediment avoidance, unprotected left turns, and different advanced driving conditions.
There will likely be two variations of Driver 3.0: the excessive finish variant is D-PRO whose {hardware} prices $2,000 and consists of Valet Parking Help and point-to-point navigation on all roads with no operational design area constraints, then there’s D-AIR {hardware} which prices $1,000 and consists of automated cruise management, lane centering management, and autonomous emergency braking.
“Each variations of the Driver 3.0 answer expedite automakers’ mass manufacturing plans as they comprehensively tackle issues relating to excessive value of mapping and upkeep, in addition to the restrictions of geo-fencing,” the corporate stated.
“Not counting on HD maps, sensible driving will likely be obtainable in all places and reasonably priced for automakers and customers alike,” DeepRoute.ai stated. It can additionally scale back driving fatigue and supply a easy and constant driving expertise, the corporate added.