Understanding the different automated vehicle levels is critical for transportation professionals as we prepare for future roadway deployments. Specifically, we must focus on how infrastructure can support the transition toward higher degrees of autonomy safely and effectively.
The Roadmap to Full Autonomy
Traffic Technology International — January 2020
“As transportation professionals, we need to focus on the benefits of connected and automated vehicles.”
Understanding the Five Automated Vehicle Levels
The path to full autonomy is divided into distinct stages that define the relationship between the driver and the machine. Because each stage introduces new technical challenges, it is important to categorize automated vehicle levels accurately. Level 4 represents “High Automation,” where a vehicle can handle all driving tasks under specific conditions. Level 5, conversely, is “Full Automation,” requiring no human intervention in any environment. Specifically, the leap from Level 3 to Level 4 is one of the most complex hurdles for current technology.
Many experts believe that while Level 5 is still in development, Level 4 is becoming a reality in specialized transit hubs. Therefore, agencies should begin auditing their current systems to ensure they can communicate with these advanced platforms. By standardizing our approach to automated vehicle levels, we can ensure that our roadways remain safe for both human and machine drivers. Finally, we encourage continuous collaboration between technology providers and city planners to make full autonomy a reality.
