Intel Wants In on Self-Driving Cars, Too

Just a few days after Google unveiled its self-driving car prototype, Intel is getting in on the automated vehicle industry, too.

The company is introducing what it calls an "in-vehicle solutions platform," which could eventually support self-driving vehicles like the Google car. Intel's new hardware and software technology aims to help "the car evolve to better inform, assist and eventually assume control," according to a press release.

The infotainment system — which comes with processors, an operating system and developer kits — would make it easier for automakers and suppliers to bring updates to its platform much faster (in only 12 months) and at 50% of the cost.
Earlier this week, Google unveiled the design of its self-driving car prototype, a small two-seater with no steering wheel, no brake pedal and a "stop" panic button. The dimensions are still unknown, but it has a smiley face on its front exterior.

Self-driving cars have the potential to make the roads much safer, thanks to built-in sensors that can inform a computer to make driving decisions much faster than humans. For example, the Google car can slow down for jaywalking pedestrians, watch for cars that sneak out of hidden driveways and look for cyclists making gestures that indicate a possible turn. In addition to reducing crashes, self-driving cars could ease congestion, improve fuel economy, reduce parking needs and bring mobility to those who are unable to drive.

Although there are challenges ahead — such as consumer adoption and cost — the potential here is massive. Not surprisingly, companies want in.

Although the product is available for auto systems with advancer driver assistance capabilities, future iterations will be "geared for advanced driving experiences such as autonomous or self-driving cars."
Intel said it is actively collecting data about how people drive and how cars can be more adaptive, predictive and interact with drivers and its surroundings.

In 2012, the company established a $100 million Intel Capital Connected Car Fund to grow car tech integration and help it enable future autonomous driving capabilities.

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