Eco Factor: Robotic vehicles powered by electricity.
VisLab Intercontinental Autonomous Challenge has commenced with a goal to travel 8000 miles to Shanghai by the end of October. The team is riding on modified Piaggio Porter Electric vans that will play various roles during the journey that has started in Milan, Italy.
Team members will take control of the lead vehicles, but it will drive autonomously most of the time. The main function of the lead vehicle will be to navigate as there are no maps available for some remote parts of the route. The lead vehicle will send out GPS signals to the follower vehicle, which will also be equipped with cameras and laser scanners to avoid obstacles on the road.
The vans are also carrying solar panels to power computer processors, sensors and driving actuators. The vans will however retain their original electric power systems. With a top speed of 37mph, the vans will only function for four hours each day, after which they will be stopped to recharge onboard batteries.
Via: CNet
