Nissan tested a prototype of its most advanced autonomous driving technology, planned for real-world use from 2020, on the roads of Tokyo.

The Japanese carmaker tested the next-generation ProPilot technology on a modified Infiniti Q50 sports sedan. The technology enables the vehicle to operate autonomously on urban roads and freeways, from when the driver selects a destination using the navigation system, until the arrival of the destination.

The prototype’s artificial intelligence uses input from 12 sonars, 12 cameras, nine millimetre-wave radars, six laser scanners and a high-definition map to analyse complex scenarios in real time and navigate smoothly through challenging city conditions such as crossing busy intersections. These hardware upgrades, along with software improvements, also ensure smooth transitions when encountering obstacles on the road. This results in a human-like driving feel that gives passengers peace of mind.

“Ingenuity is at the heart of everything we do at Nissan,” said Takao Asami, Nissan’s senior vice- president in charge of research and advanced engineering. “Our next-generation ProPilot prototype showcases technology that will be available for real-world use from 2020. Today’s demonstration is another example of our successful work toward creating an autonomous driving future for all.”

 The demonstration follows the recent launch of the new, zero-emission, ProPilot-equipped Nissan Leaf. Nissan’s growing line-up of models with ProPilot also includes the Nissan Serena, X-Trail and Rogue and the Qashqai which will be launched in 2018.