JLR unveils vision for all-terrain autonomy

The Land Rover All-Terrain Self-Driving Research project involves a range of sensors, cameras, and communications technology that will allow vehicles to identify and adapt to terrain and surface conditions ahead, as well as share information with other connected vehicles travelling in convoy.

“We don’t want to limit future highly automated and fully autonomous technologies to tarmac,” said Tony Harper, JLR’s head of research. “When the driver turns off the road, we want this support and assistance to continue.”

Terrain-Based Speed Adaption (TBSA) uses cameras to sense bumpy or undulating terrain ahead, including potholes and standing water. Speed is adjusted autonomously to compensate for the change in landscape and to keep passengers comfortable. Once clear of the tricky terrain, speed is then automatically readjusted.

Working in tandem with TBSA will be JLR’s Surface Identification and 3D Path Sensing. This uses a combination of camera, ultrasonic, radar and LIDAR sensors that create a 360 picture of the vehicle’s surroundings. According to the company, the sensors can determine surface characteristics down to the width of a tyre, even in rain and falling snow. Drivers can then be prompted to adjust the vehicle’s terrain settings, or the vehicle could adapt automatically, depending on the level of autonomy desired. Overhead Clearance Assist uses stereo cameras to scan for low-hanging branches and barriers, warning the driver of impending collisions.