While semi-automated driving with distance or lane departure warning systems is already available in many cars, intensive research into fully autonomous driving is being carried out in Styria.
The Center for Autonomous Driving ALP.Lap is currently testing a system on the southern autobahn (A2) between Graz-Ost and Laßnitzhöhe, in which messages or commands from the infrastructure can be transmitted to the vehicle. The function is already integrated in the first vehicles to inform drivers and vehicles about restrictions such as traffic jams, black ice situations or to inform aquaplaning. Once the automation is complete, such hazardous situations can be communicated to the vehicle.
Another system being worked on is this Valet parking: The car should be able to find its parking space completely autonomously and then drive back to the exit point. This already works in equipped garages and in some premium vehicles.
In addition, on a test track, the Technical University of Graz a digitized traffic mirror for the urban area was tested. This enables the car to use a laser sensor to look around the corner and inform the driver about what is happening on the other side.
However, it will take up to five years before this external information can actually be used. Managing Director Gerhard Greiner is confident that the technology will soon be mature.