In late 2016, NHTSA published data showing the distribution of pre-crash scenarios. It showed 29 percent of crashes are rear-end crashes. The NHTSA report also lists driver contributing factors in crashes that include being under the influence of alcohol, obscured vision, and distracted driving. Self-driving vehicles have a myriad of sensors and cameras to “see” the environment, and they do not get drunk or distracted.
This video demonstrates our self-driving car’s ability to react to a lead car as it decelerates in the road. The Torc self-driving car approaches a car making indecisive maneuvers. The lead car slows through a green light, shows a right turn signal and flashers, and then stops in the right lane to pick up passengers. Traffic passing in the left lane prevents the Torc car from changing lanes. Our car slows and eventually comes to a stop until the lead car resumes driving.
We’re showcasing the capabilities of our autonomous car system on real public roads with real scenarios the car has encountered. To get updates on the latest videos, check back on our blog or subscribe to our YouTube channel.