Advanced Level 3 self-driving technology in making by Honda

KUALA LUMPUR: Honda is on a mission to eliminate traffic deaths involving its vehicles. How will the automaker make it happen? Well, by developing Level 3 self-driving technology that’ll function at speeds below the legal limit on highways. As per the automaker, the tech will get developed by the second half of 2029.

For those who aren’t aware, in 2021, Honda became the first carmaker to sell vehicles with Level 3 self-driving technology. Honda Japan launched the Legend sedan with Level 3 automation tech last year. Limited to just 100 units, the Legend features the brand's Level 3 ‘Traffic Jam Pilot’ system which can kick in at speeds below 30 kmph on highways and remains operational until 50 kmph.

The Level 3 self-driving tech aka conditional driving automation allows the driver to engage in activities behind the wheel, for instance using a smartphone, or watching movies, but only under limited conditions.

The new system Honda is developing is called Honda Sensing 360/AcuraWatch. An expansion of the ongoing Honda Sensing suite of driver assists features. The said tech will be deployed overseas in the second half of the decade and should be in the US by 2030.

Honda engineer Mahito Shikama told reporters on Tuesday, "We believe we can help reduce accidents by pursuing Level 3 technology, which in essence is about cars that do not crash.”

The automaker didn’t share any details as to when it will begin the mass production of Level 3 self-driving cars.

Part of the list of automakers with Level 3 driving systems is Mercedes-Benz, which last year won approval for its technology from Germany’s KBA, the car watchdog.

Also Read: Honda will begin producing a new FCEV based on the CR-V in 2024