Check out this very cool video from iDownload Blog, which shows scientists at Oxford University using an iPad to enable a Nissan Leaf car to drive itself. The iPad, which is installed in the car’s dashboard, is able to take over from the car’s human driver. All the driver has to do is tap once, and the iPad will start to control the car. At present, as you might imagine, this is just a prototype system, and costs £5000/$7500, but the makers belief that it could eventually retail for as little as £100. According to the report, the car moves in 2D, but senses in 3D, and has to learn its environment before taking over from the human that is driving the car. It works by using built-in cameras and lasers, with 3D laser mapping providing a detailed picture of the car’s surroundings. iDownload Blog notes that GPS is not used by the system, as it might not always be available. Very cool idea!


Source: Oxford University researchers show off iPad-powered self-driving Nissan Leaf

WOW! this is totally awesome

Sounds great but I don't know how comfy I'd be with a tablet driving for me. Imagine the potential liability insurance one would require using such a thing! No thanks!

If your autonomous car crashes, isn't it the fault of the driver? In this case, the manufacturer? You are the passenger.

Letting the iPad drive is probably safer than letting the driver try and drive while using the iPhone or iPad to check email and text friends.