There is levels that driving automation

Autonomous Driving technology is progressing rapidly from Level 0 to fully autonomous Level 5.

From level 0 to level 5

Similar to sports skill levels that are typically broken down into beginner, intermediate and advanced levels; Autonomous Driving technology is classified into several levels depending on how much the system can handle and how much human driver input is needed. Currently, the definition set by the Society of Automotive Engineers International in 2016 is used internationally which breaks down the level of automation into six steps from Level 0 to 5.

Levels of driving automation

For example, technologies such as Forward Collision Avoidance (FCA) and Blind-spot Collision Warning (BCW) which issue warnings and may momentarily intervene are classified as Level 0. Technologies which control steering or the vehicle’s speed such as Lane Following Assist (LFA) and Smart Cruise Control (SCC) are classified as Level 1. Whilst Level 2 automated systems, such as Highway Driving Assist (HDA) take full control of the vehicle (accelerating, braking, and steering).

The difference between Level 2 and Level 3 is most significant. Up to Level 2, the system provides assistance whereas from Level 3 it begins to operate as the pilot, in control of the vehicle, and capable of making lane changes and passing vehicles without human driver input.

Levels of driving automation

Although a Level 3 system can control the vehicle by itself and recognizes changes happening on the road, it still requests the driver take over when a risk is detected. A Level 4 system is similar to a Level 3 system but no driver attention is ever required for safety in limited special areas or circumstances such as traffic jams. Level 5 has no limitations providing fully Autonomous Driving in all circumstances. HMG is aiming to achieve Level 3 Autonomous Driving on highways and Level 4 in urban environments, by 2021.