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Volvo will use its own software, VolvoCars.OS
The Swedish automobile concern has presented its own operating system for electric vehicles. The software allows cars to drive autonomously without human intervention or control.
VolvoCars.OS will be equipped with a new generation of electric cars, which have the right to drive without a driver on authorized roads.
The OS will be based on two computers with NVIDIA Orin chipsets. In addition, this includes lidars with a range of 230 to 300 meters, as well as other sensors that transmit information for further processing.
Today’s Volvo models include more than 100 electronic control units, but according to the company’s experts, their number can be reduced by about 2 times with the introduction of VolvoCars.OS. In addition, the system will be updated over-the-air, that is, through a wireless connection. This option makes it possible to improve some or other components of the software at the moment, without the need for stationary staff presence.
Volvo is positioning the new operating system as a necessary program for the program Volvo Highway Pilot, which is responsible for Level 3 autonomy drone, but it is only possible on certain roads. Once the vehicle leaves this area, control is transferred to the driver. In case the list of allowed highways is expanded, a wireless update of the system will allow for quick changes in the control of the electric car.
According to the automaker’s official statement, VolvoCars.OS will be installed on the new XC90 models, which are scheduled for production in 2022.
The Swedish concern pays special attention to the safety of electric cars. The number of models has a limited maximum speed, which reduces the risk of fatal accidents. In addition, a car with a high level of safety is much easier to insure. In the near future, Volvo plans to expand the sales package for new models to include discounted insurance. The manufacturer wants to reach 3 levels of autonomy when the vehicle can move almost without human control. This primarily refers to driving on roads with predictable traffic – freeways, highways, and others. However, the driver must still be present in the vehicle to take control at any time. Such situations are possible, because in non-standard cases the autopilot may misjudge the situation.
The company notes that the introduction of VolvoCars.OS will be the first step towards the introduction of innovative systems for various platforms, including Android Automotive OS, AUTOSAR, and Linux. Over time, Volvo cars will be equipped with various APIs that can be used to develop new services.