At the University of Warwick, an Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)-funded 3xD Simulator will test the real-world capabilities of connected and autonomous vehicle technology.
The simulator is located at the Virtual Reality Centre in the National Automotive Innovation Centre – a long term commitment between Jaguar Land Rover, WMG and Tata Motors European Technical Centre.
The machine will help designers understand how autonomous vehicles cope with complex driving scenarios, changing lighting conditions, communications interference or unexpected events.
A virtual world will be created where next generation protocols can be developed; this will include the capability to replicate GPS or 4G signal loss, or even simulate a cyber-attack.
The success of autonomous technologies – and whether the public accepts them – will depend upon how quickly safe, secure and robust programmes can be implemented.
WMG said testing these technologies on-road in real-world driving situations was often complex and uncontrollable for early stage development. Therefore, any measures to reduce early risk were important.
Prof Paul Jennings, WMG lead on intelligent vehicle research, added: “I am looking forward to using this advanced simulator to better understand smart and connected vehicles in a safe, repeatable and realistic virtual environment.
“We want to help our industry partners accelerate the introduction of this exciting new technology, so that we can all reap the many benefits as soon as possible. Improvements in safety and comfort, and reductions in congestion and energy use will all be made possible.”
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