DEPARTMENT: Transportation & Capital Improvements
DEPARTMENT HEAD: Mike Frisbie, P.E.
COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: Citywide
SUBJECT: Autonomous Vehicles
SUMMARY:
A briefing on autonomous vehicles, including the current state of technology and levels of automation, as well as a potential Request for Information on testing autonomous vehicles in San Antonio.
BACKGROUND:
State of Technology:
While there is no fully autonomous vehicle commercially available today, various forms of automation have been in practice for many years. The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) has defined the following levels of automation:
* Level 0, No Automation - Zero autonomy; the driver performs all driving tasks.
* Level 1, Driver Assistance - Vehicle is controlled by the driver, but some driving assist features may be included in the vehicle design.
* Level 2, Partial Automation - Vehicle has combined automated functions, like acceleration and steering, but the driver must remain engaged with the driving task and monitor the environment at all times.
* Level 3, Conditional Automation - Driver is a necessity, but is not required to monitor the environment. The driver must be ready to take control of the vehicle at all times with notice.
* Level 4, High Automation - The vehicle is capable of performing all driving functions under certain conditions. The driver may have the option to control the vehicle.
* Level 5, Full Automation - The vehicle is capable of performing all driving functions under all conditions. The driver may have the option to control the vehicle.
To date, the highest level of automation commercially available for personal use is the 2018 Audi A8 which can operate in Level 3. Tesla's Autopilot and Cadillac's Super Cruise can operate in Level 2. Currently, Level 5 operation is anticipated to be available in two to three years. There are several companies testing higher levels of automation in several cities, but that technology is not yet avail...
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