Spain’s Automotive Technology Centre of Galicia (CTAG) has been working with French car manufacturer Groupe PSA to test the impact of IoT and V2X technologies on autonomous driving in an urban environment.
Part of the European Autopilot project launched in early 2017, the trials took place in the Spanish city of Vigo in order to simulate the complex scenarios and surroundings found in built-up metropolitan areas.
The Vigo project focused on casual autonomous driving, optimal speed regulation when approaching a traffic light, the protection of vulnerable users, and an automated valet parking system. Other types of tests will be carried out in Vigo in the coming months.
“These tests supplement the trials already carried out by Groupe PSA in Galicia, other parts of Europe and China,” said Ignacio Bueno, director of Groupe PSA’s Vigo plant. “These initiatives bring together the various components of the ecosystem that needs to be created in order to deploy the technologies enabling connected, autonomous vehicles.”
Luis Moreno, managing director of CTAG, the project leader, said, “The Autopilot project is enhancing CTAG’s research strategy and strengthening its position as a leading European center for the development of smart vehicles. It is also consolidating our strategic partnership with Groupe PSA in the area of connected, autonomous driving.”
Abel Caballero, mayor of Vigo, added, “By participating in this project we are reaffirming the city’s commitment, begun 10 years ago, to facilitate the integration of modern communication technologies with road infrastructure and traffic. The city will allow its current and future development and implementation. It is essential for safer and more comfortable citizen mobility and reinforces our smart and sustainable city goals.”