Traffic jam technology is step towards autonomous motoring

Due to go into series production next year, Bosch’s traffic jam assistant represents one in a series of phased steps that will eventually lead to fully autonomous automobiles.

A Bosch spokesperson told The Engineer via email that the traffic jam assistant will use Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) functionality in combination with lane keeping during stop-and-go traffic situations on highways at speeds between 0-30mph.

The driver would still have responsibility and control over the car but, with traffic jam assistant engaged, the car will automatically follow ongoing traffic within the lane.

Bosch’s rationale for automotive autonomy comes from accident research that reveals that motorists do not want to be in situations where they are not stimulated, or in motorway driving where they could possibly become overwhelmed.

‘It is for these exact reasons that the assistance systems can kick in when too many things are happening in parallel – whether easing monotonous driving or in critical situations these systems can intervene automatically when necessary,’ said Bosch.