Google's autonomous car: the 5 key points

The Waymo brand will develop Google’s self-driving car. Its technology is more advanced than was initially expected.

Below, we break down the five key points of Google’s autonomous vehicle:

1. The project began in 2009, when Google installed its autonomous technology on a first-generation Toyota Prius, followed by several Lexus SUVs. Since then, the prototypes have covered more than 3.2 million kilometres in testing.

2. Its technology is based on a system called LiDAR (Laser Imaging Detection). This method uses multidirectional laser beams that bounce off objects to create a virtual 3D representation of the real world. This artificial intelligence system also assimilates information from radar, GPS and cameras to create an image that millimetre-accurately resembles the real environment surrounding the vehicle.

3. Very complex algorithms are required to predict the movements of other cars, pedestrians, cyclists, etc. As expected, the car uses Google Maps and traffic information to find its way.

4. Google’s latest prototypes, unveiled in 2014, were 100% electric, had a range of 170 km, a top speed of 40 km/h and were designed for urban use.

5. Everything points to Google’s cars becoming available from 2020. However, it does not seem that any 100% autonomous vehicle will be legal by then, not even if they are technically feasible.