Hyundai Ioniq 5: A Self-Driving Taxi that Passed the Driving Test and Acquired a License
In April 2024, Hyundai released a video showcasing the remarkable capabilities of their self-driving system, which is now in its final stages of development. Specifically, Hyundai’s self-driving taxi, the Ioniq 5, successfully completed a series of public tests, including a driving exam in the United States, and was awarded a valid driver’s license.
Impressive Performance in the Driving Test
According to Kandice Jones, the examiner who sat in the self-driving Hyundai Ioniq 5 during the test, the vehicle demonstrated an incredibly convincing performance. It executed all the required maneuvers flawlessly, such as lane changes, maintaining speed, staying in the correct lane, and emergency braking.
This outstanding performance puts the vehicle among the minority of test cases, as only 16% of comparable tests have been passed in the past.
A Glimpse into Level 4 Autonomous Driving
The self-driving taxi version of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 represents one of the few experimental models currently testing Level 4 autonomous driving technology. This level of autonomy allows drivers to be nearly hands-off in most situations. On predetermined routes, the vehicle can operate without the need for constant human supervision.
The advancement in self-driving technology is particularly good news for people with limited mobility, disabilities, or older adults. Even though complete self-driving capability has not been achieved yet, the ability for self-driving vehicles to smoothly navigate predetermined routes is already a significant benefit.
Watch the Hyundai Ioniq 5 Pass the Driving Test in the US
Conclusion
Hyundai is pushing the boundaries of autonomous driving technology with the impressive performance of its self-driving taxi, the Hyundai Ioniq 5. This vehicle’s ability to pass a driving test and acquire a valid driver’s license highlights the significant progress in autonomous vehicle development. As self-driving technology continues to advance, it promises to bring about a new era of transportation, providing greater freedom and accessibility for all.