Autonomous vehicles running on the roads are expected to reach 58 million by 2030. This is a significant number that reflects how fast these cars developed to become capable of running by themselves within a short time range. There also has been great interest in self-driving vehicles, with huge investments made to manufacture and modify them.
This article provides an overview of the available AVs in 2024 with different levels of automation and addresses the considerations for car shipping companies to respond to new changes in the automotive industry.
Available Self-driving Vehicles in 2024
The dream of having a car drive passengers to their different destinations on its own becomes closer to being true. This can be attributed to the huge developments automakers have made in the field. However, the available infrastructure in 2024 doesn’t seem to be enough to facilitate the adoption of these cars into our streets. That is one of the reasons why current developments in AVs haven’t yet reached full automation levels despite the powerful AV models available in the market now.
Toyota Camry 2023
Toyota’s Camry comes with level 1 autonomy features. Its adaptive cruise control, along with its powerful pre-collision system and pedestrian detection, is what sets this car apart from other autonomous car models. This system helps mitigate road accidents and their overall gravity.
Tesla Autopilot
Autopilot models operate with the second level of automation. Their prominent features involve traffic-aware cruise control, lane centering, automatic lane changing, self-parking, and remote summoning, in addition to eight cameras for a 360-degree view.
Cadillac Super Cruise
This version of Cadillac operates with level 2 autonomy, utilizing cameras, sensors, GPS, LiDAR, and map data for hands-free driving with adaptive cruise control. It can change lanes on demand when feasible.
Mercedes-Benz Drive Pilot
Available in Germany and soon entering the US market, drive pilot offers great potential and pushes the limits of possibilities. It allows the car to take over driving in stop-and-go traffic up to 36 mph using sensors like LiDAR to perceive its surroundings.
Special Considerations for Car Shipping Companies
The shift in the automotive industry towards embracing autonomous vehicles and other advancements has required car shipping companies to adapt to this evolving landscape. That is why we address the following special considerations necessary for car shippers:
Autonomous Vehicle Shipping Requirements
AVs, particularly those designed for ride-sharing, might be smaller and lighter than traditional vehicles; this could impact shipping companies’ trailer capacity and pricing models.
Due to unique features like sensor arrays or self-driving technology, AVs also require specialized loading, unloading, and transport equipment. So, companies might need to invest in such equipment or establish partnerships with specialists.
Moreover, shipping level 3-5 AVs requiring minimal human intervention might pose logistical challenges. Companies may need to develop protocols for handling these vehicles, ensuring they remain inoperable during transport to comply with regulations.
Technology Adoption
Car shipping companies might need to invest in technology solutions to optimize their operations in the face of an evolving industry; this could include fleet management systems, data analytics tools, and tracking solutions for AVs. One of the expected scenarios is collaborating with AV developers and tech companies to pave the way for innovative shipping solutions tailored to the specific needs of AVs.
Tempus Logix is a well-renowned car shipping company that operates nationwide in the United States. It has an excellent reputation for arranging safe shipments for all vehicle types and providing real-time technological solutions that enhance shipping processes.
Conclusion
Addressing the special considerations of the developments in AVs becomes more crucial for car shippers. It enables them to efficiently respond to the new trends AVs will bring to the automotive and shipping markets. These cars are witnessing fast developments and improvements, making seeing them operating on the streets only a matter of when.