Honda's Level 3 Autonomous Driving and Beyond: A Global Strategy with Eyes-Off EV Technology

From Expressways to City Streets, and Beyond: Honda's Autonomous Driving Revolution

On September 9th, Honda announced its goal of pioneering the world with "eyes-off" autonomous driving functionality, enabling drivers to look away from the road in all situations on both expressways and city streets. Starting with its electric vehicle (EV) series launching in the latter half of the 2020s, the plan is to gradually expand the application range from highway congestion to general roads.

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Level 3 Autonomous Driving "Eyes-Off": Enhancing Driver Freedom and Convenience

"Eyes-off" is a Level 3 autonomous driving feature. While driver occupancy is required, the system handles driving operations, allowing drivers to look away from the front and freely enjoy activities like watching videos or reading within the vehicle. Honda aims to enhance customer convenience and expand its customer base by introducing the eyes-off function to its EV series "Honda 0 (Zero)" launching in 2026.

Proprietary AI Technology: A Fusion of Experienced Driver Wisdom and Cutting-Edge Technology

Honda achieves highly advanced autonomous driving by leveraging its proprietary artificial intelligence (AI), combining years of accumulated driving behavior models from experienced drivers with technology from a US startup. This enables safe and smooth autonomous driving experiences, even in complex traffic situations.

A Challenge to Tesla and Chinese Competitors: Aiming for a Comeback with Autonomous Driving

While US Tesla and Chinese companies are leading the EV market, Honda aims for a comeback armed with its advanced autonomous driving technology. The eyes-off function represents a significant advancement in autonomous driving technology, and will be a key differentiator for Honda's EV series, strengthening its competitiveness.

An Evolution of Honda SENSING Elite: Leveraging Level 3 Autonomous Driving Experience

Honda launched the world's first Level 3 autonomous driving vehicle, the Legend, in 2021, and has been promoting the development and practical application of autonomous driving technology through Honda SENSING Elite. The eyes-off function is developed based on the technology and experience cultivated with Honda SENSING Elite, further improving safety and reliability.

Towards Level 4 and Level 5 Autonomous Driving: Future-Oriented Technological Development

Honda is actively pursuing research and development not only for the introduction of the eyes-off function but also for the realization of Level 4 autonomous driving and eventually Level 5, fully autonomous driving. At Level 4, the system performs all driving operations under specific conditions, eliminating the need for driver intervention. Level 5 involves the system handling all driving operations in any situation, making the driver unnecessary.

Honda's Challenge: Transforming Society with Autonomous Driving Technology

Through autonomous driving technology, Honda aims to realize a zero-traffic accident society. Autonomous driving is expected to not only reduce driver burden but also contribute to mitigating traffic congestion and reducing environmental impact. Honda will contribute to the realization of a safer and more comfortable mobility society through the development and popularization of autonomous driving technologies, including the eyes-off function.

The Future of Autonomous Driving Technology: Collaboration with Society is Essential

The evolution of autonomous driving technology is remarkable and holds the potential to significantly change our lives. However, the practical application of autonomous driving technology requires overcoming not only technical challenges but also legal regulations and social acceptance.

Toward a Safer and More Comfortable Mobility Society

In the development and popularization of autonomous driving technology, Honda always prioritizes safety. At the same time, by emphasizing dialogue with society and deepening understanding of autonomous driving technology, we aim to realize a safer and more comfortable mobility society.

Expectations for Honda's Autonomous Driving Technology

Honda's announcement of the introduction of the eyes-off function can be said to symbolize the evolution of autonomous driving technology. It is expected that Honda will lead the evolution of autonomous driving technology with its cultivated technological capabilities and development power, contributing to the realization of a safer and more comfortable mobility society.