Ford Motor Company has recently announced the launch of an automated driving technology subsidiary by the name of Ford Autonomous Vehicles LLC (FAVL). This move comes in the wake of Ford’s recent acquisition of Argo AI and the company’s impressive success with automated driving technology. But what does this new venture mean for the automotive giant, and what challenges and opportunities could it provide?
FAVL’s prime focus will be the development and deployment of Level 4 autonomous driving systems, which would allow drivers to take their hands off the steering wheel in certain driving scenarios. Ford has made major investments in Argo AI to make this dream a reality, and now these investments have culminated in the formation of FAVL. Going forward, Ford will be relying heavily on FAVL’s accomplishments to develop and deploy autonomous driving systems which can make driving safer, more efficient, and better for the environment.
While automated driving technology is the main focus of FAVL, Ford has also indicated that the subsidiary will concentrate on developing software for its automotive line. This could open up opportunities for Ford to further develop its vehicles with the latest technology, including more sophisticated in-car infotainment systems and improved driver-assistance systems. Up to this point, Ford has lagged behind other car manufacturers in terms of bringing software-driven advancements to its vehicles. FAVL could be the key to bringing it up to speed.
One of the main challenges plaguing FAVL is the lack of regulations in the United States for the operation of autonomous driving vehicles. While the technology is certainly advanced enough to make automated driving a reality, there has been little in the way of legislation to protect drivers and pedestrians alike. This is something that Ford is likely to keep an eye on as development continues and the technology is more widely released.
The launch of Ford Autonomous Vehicles LLC could very well be one of the biggest moves ever made by the company in terms of autonomous driving technology. It remains to be seen just how successful the venture will be, but regardless it could provide a major boost to Ford’s operations, both in terms of software development and in the deployment of automated driving systems. For now, as Ford moves forward with its plans, there will likely be both challenges and opportunities to make the most of this new venture.
