Uber Advanced Technologies Group (UberATG) has unveiled its latest Volvo self-driving SUV -- the first production car capable of fully driving itself -- at this year’s Uber Elevate Summit in Washington, USA.

Developed by Uber ATG and Volvo Cars in a joint engineering partnership, the XC90 is designed with a chassis ready to integrate Uber ATG’s self-driving system direct from the factory. The enhanced process has created a vehicle that can be deployed in self-driving mode on Uber’s network as part of an autonomous ridesharing service.

To deploy fully self-driving vehicles, it is critical that backup systems for steering, braking, and battery power are built-in, UberATG said in a statement.

Its latest XC90 production vehicle has steering and braking system with redundant protection designed for a computer to control. If any of the primary systems should fail, the backup systems immediately act to bring the car safely to a stop.

When paired with Volvo’s vehicle platform, Uber’s robust self-driving system will one day allow for safe, reliable, autonomous ridesharing, without the need for a specially trained Uber employee operating and overseeing the car, known today as a Mission Specialist. This process will begin in small, pre-determined geographies in the cities ATG operates in and will grow over time as the vehicle’s capabilities expand.

Fully integrated technology for riders to use

A fully integrated passenger app is placed at the centre of Volvo’s luxury interior, creating an informative and dynamic way for passengers to experience their self-driving trip. Environmental controls, trip details, and safety functions, including requests for assistance, are easily accessible from the app, ensuring riders’ comfort. – TradeArabia News Service