How is AI Being Used in Cars?

Artificial intelligence (AI) in the automotive industry is no longer a future-looking buzzword. From smart navigation that learns from every journey to intelligent interactions between the driver and car, AI has been consistently revolutionizing the driving experience.

Moreover, AI is helping to save lives. It’s making roads safer with predictive safety features and driver assistance systems that feel like having a co-pilot with superhuman reflexes. But, contrary to popular belief, AI is not a recent phenomenon in the automotive sector and has been integrated into automotive applications for over two decades.

As Masashige Mizuyama, Representative Director, Vice President and CTO at Panasonic Automotive Systems, highlights in the recent Arm Viewpoints podcast: “AI has been integrated into automotive applications for over 20 years, evolving from simple voice commands to advanced deep learning models that understand natural language.”

This evolution goes beyond just adding new features; it’s about fundamentally transforming the driving experience. Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), Human Machine Interface (HMI), and in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) are prime examples of how AI enhances vehicle safety and user interaction. Moreover, the fusion of sensor data using AI improves safety and provides meaningful insights to both drivers and passengers.

AI in ADAS

One of the most prominent applications of AI in cars is ADAS. These systems enhance vehicle safety by providing real-time data processing and decision-making capabilities. According to a report by the Partnership for Analytics Research in Traffic Safety (PARTS), by 2023 five ADAS features – forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection warning, pedestrian automatic emergency braking (AEB), and lane departure warning—achieved market penetration rates higher than 90% in new vehicles.

AI in HMI

Another significant advancement is the HMI. AI-powered voice recognition systems allow drivers to keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel while interacting with their vehicles. This technology is rapidly evolving, making in-car interactions more seamless and enhancing overall driving safety.

AI enables cars to perceive and infer the intentions of drivers and passengers, allowing for smarter and more autonomous responses. For instance, if a driver expresses a desire for coffee, the AI can recommend a nearby coffee shop, set the navigation route, and even place an order—all while minimizing distractions.

Moreover, AI’s ability to process vast amounts of data from various sensors is essential for ensuring safety and enhancing the overall driving experience. By leveraging AI, vehicles can provide a more comfortable and creative environment, allowing occupants to make the most of their time on the road.

AI-powered voice recognition systems, for example, allow drivers to interact with their vehicles without taking their hands off the wheel or their eyes off the road. This technology is rapidly evolving, making in-car interactions more seamless and intuitive. In fact, according to GlobalData’s report, in the past three years, the automotive industry has seen over 720,000 patents filed and approved. This widespread use highlights the increasing reliance on voice technology for in-car interactions.

AI-based IVI systems

AI-powered IVI systems are set to transform the driving experience by integrating multiple advanced technologies that continuously adapt to the habits of drivers. Voice recognition will be used for seamless, hands-free interaction, enhancing safety and convenience. Natural language processing will enable intuitive communication, making interactions feel more human-like.

AI-based data analytics, meanwhile, will provide real-time, relevant updates for drivers to create a more enjoyable, efficient, and personalized driving environment and experience. In fact, according to ABIresearch, by 2030 consumers are expected to spend over 500 million hours annually using in-car video-on-demand apps.

The fusion of sensor data

Integrating various sensor data using AI is a critical advancement in automotive technology. This process, known as sensor fusion, combines data from multiple sensors to create a comprehensive understanding of the vehicle’s environment. This fusion not only improves the efficiency of data processing, but also enhances safety by providing meaningful insights to both drivers and passengers.

Sensor fusion technology allows autonomous vehicles to build a detailed model of their surroundings using data from RADAR, LiDAR, cameras, and ultrasonic sensors. 

Meanwhile, AI-driven sensor fusion also enables personalized in-car experiences. By analyzing data from various sensors, vehicles can adjust settings, such as seat position, climate control, and infotainment preferences based on the driver’s habits and preferences. 

Simon Teng, Senior Director of Automotive Partnerships at Arm, emphasizes the importance of integrating various sensor data using AI: “This fusion of information not only improves the efficiency of data processing but also enhances safety by providing meaningful insights to both drivers and passengers. The ability to process complex instructions and deliver personalized experiences marks a significant leap in automotive technology”.

By leveraging AI, vehicles can offer a more intuitive and seamless driving experience. For instance, AI can analyze data from in-cabin cameras to detect driver drowsiness and issue alerts or adjust the vehicle’s settings to keep the driver alert. This proactive approach to safety and comfort is a testament to the transformative potential of AI in the automotive industry.

The future of AI in Car

Looking ahead, AI advancements promise to significantly improve the in-vehicle experience. Mizuyama-san envisions a future where AI enhances comfort and hospitality, allowing cars to proactively offer suggestions and controls based on the inferred needs of drivers and passengers.

Vehicles will transform into versatile spaces that can adapt to various needs, such as becoming a mobile office or a relaxing environment. By leveraging AI, cars can create personalized experiences that make time spent in the vehicle more enjoyable and productive.

How Arm and Panasonic Automotive Systems are pioneering innovations

Both Arm and Panasonic Automotive Systems are at the forefront of automotive innovation, working together to push the boundaries of what is possible. Mizuyama-san shared Panasonic Automotive Systems’ vision to become the best “Joy in Motion” design company, focusing on eliminating the pains of mobility and enhancing the overall user experience.

To that effect, Arm and Panasonic Automotive Systems announced a partnership to help build a standardized architecture for software-defined vehicles (SDVs). This collaboration focuses on creating a flexible software stack to meet current and future automotive needs

Overall, the integration of AI in the automotive industry is not just about adding new features; it’s about transforming the entire driving experience. As AI technology continues to advance, we can expect even greater innovations that will redefine how we interact with our vehicles.

For a deeper dive into these insights, be sure to listen to the full podcast episode here: AI in the Car: A Look to the Future.