Nissan has teamed up with the UK Government to embark on a pioneering venture known as evolvAD. This ambitious project is poised to redefine the future of transportation, promising to push the boundaries of autonomous driving technology.
Nissan, known for its award-winning efforts in autonomous vehicles, takes the helm as the technical leader in this endeavor. The evolvAD project is set to bolster the capabilities of autonomous vehicles and ensure their readiness for widespread adoption.
At its core, evolvAD aims to propel autonomous driving technology to new heights. Over the course of 21 months, this initiative will put Connected and Autonomous Vehicles (CAV) to the test in a variety of challenging terrains. These tests will encompass bustling urban neighborhoods and intricate rural roads, each presenting its unique set of challenges.
Crucially, evolvAD is not a solitary undertaking. It boasts a formidable consortium of five partners, with Nissan at the forefront, pooling their resources to drive innovation forward. Generous funding from the UK government’s Intelligent Mobility fund ensures the project’s robust support.
The scope of evolvAD goes beyond open road testing. It delves into the realm of vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) technologies, aiming to enhance CAV performance and pioneer fresh V2I advancements.
This journey commenced in July 2023, with the utilization of 100% electric Nissan LEAFs as the preferred testing vehicles. Initial trials took place in simulated environments and on private test tracks, laying the foundation for real-world implementation.
Furthermore, evolvAD seamlessly aligns with Nissan’s grand vision for the future, aptly named Nissan Ambition 2030. This vision envisions a future marked by clean, safe, and inclusive mobility solutions, with the evolvAD project serving as a pivotal stepping stone toward its realization.
The significance of this endeavor is underscored by the active involvement of NTCE (Nissan Technical Centre Europe) in Cranfield, UK. NTCE’s dedication and expertise play a crucial role in propelling evolvAD toward its ambitious goals.
