The idea of full-sized remote controlled cars is something that we only ever see in sci-fi movies and James Bond films. However, with recent advances made in the field of autonomous vehicles, such as with the Google Car, the possibility of being able to drive a car without sitting behind the wheel is becoming more and more of a reality.
Land Rover have taken a step closer with their very own autonomous car technology for the Range Rover Sport. The research has effectively created an app for smartphones that allows users to control the car, pressing buttons on the app to control the steering, accelerator and brake.
Wolfgang Epple, the project leader for the new technology, believes that the remote control feature will help makes cars more safe. He envisages it being used by drivers who are trapped in difficult situations, allowing them to get out of the car and manoeuvre it out of trouble without putting themselves at risk.
“Research into technologies like these won’t only help us deliver an autonomous car. They will help make real driving safer and more enjoyable. The same sensors and systems that will help an autonomous car make the right decisions, will assist the driver and enhance the experience to help prevent accidents.”
