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1. Baidu launches driverless taxis in Chongqing and Wuhan

• • Baidu, the Chinese technology company, has launched its driverless taxi service in the cities of Chongqing and Wuhan.
  • The service, named “Apollo Go,” is part of Baidu’s ambitious plan to deploy autonomous vehicles for commercial operations.
  • Baidu’s autonomous taxis are equipped with advanced sensors, cameras, and other technologies to navigate urban environments.
  • The driverless taxis will initially operate in designated areas called “pilot zones” within the cities.
  • Passengers can book a ride using Baidu’s smartphone app and will be picked up and dropped off at designated locations within the pilot zones.
  • Baidu’s driverless taxis will have safety drivers on board initially to monitor the system and take control if necessary.

2. Fukui launches Japan’s first transport service using ‘level 4’ autonomous driving

• • Fukui Prefecture in Japan has announced plans to conduct tests for level 4 autonomous driving.
  • The tests will take place on public roads in the prefecture’s three cities: Fukui, Obama, and Sabae.
  • Level 4 autonomous driving refers to a high degree of automation where vehicles can operate without human intervention in certain defined conditions.
  • The tests will involve autonomous vehicles navigating various scenarios, including urban and rural environments, to evaluate their performance and safety.
  • Fukui Prefecture aims to utilize the test results to develop autonomous driving technologies and promote the use of self-driving vehicles in the region.
  • The tests will be conducted in collaboration with local businesses, research institutions, and automobile manufacturers.
  • Fukui Prefecture plans to create a supportive environment for autonomous driving by establishing necessary infrastructure and regulations.

3. High-tech traffic signs heading to Arizona as part of $1 million federal grant

• • Rural areas in Arizona will receive high-tech traffic signs as part of a grant-funded initiative.
  • The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) will install Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) signs in rural locations across the state.
  • The ITS signs will provide real-time information about road conditions, weather, accidents, and other relevant updates to motorists.
  • The project aims to enhance safety, improve traffic flow, and provide timely information to drivers in remote areas.
  • The grant, awarded by the U.S. Department of Transportation, will cover the installation costs of the high-tech traffic signs.
  • ADOT plans to prioritize rural locations with high crash rates or challenging driving conditions for the installation of the ITS signs.
  • The signs will utilize advanced technology, including sensors, cameras, and communication systems, to gather and relay information.
  • The data collected from the signs will also help ADOT make informed decisions about road maintenance and improvement efforts.

4. Applied Intuition to Acquire Embark Technology for $71 Million

• • Applied Intuition, a provider of simulation software for autonomous vehicles, has announced its acquisition of Embark Technology.
  • The acquisition deal involves a purchase price of $71 million.
  • Applied Intuition specializes in simulation and testing tools that aid in the development and validation of autonomous vehicle systems.
  • Embark Technology is a self-driving truck startup focused on developing autonomous trucking technology.
  • The acquisition will allow Applied Intuition to expand its capabilities and offerings in the autonomous vehicle industry.
  • Applied Intuition plans to integrate Embark’s expertise and technology into its simulation platform.
  • The combination of Applied Intuition’s simulation software and Embark’s autonomous trucking technology will facilitate comprehensive testing and development for self-driving trucks.
  • The acquisition deal reflects the ongoing consolidation and collaboration within the autonomous vehicle industry.

5. Commsignia and Mitsubishi Electric Agree to Partnership for Delivery of Advanced V2X Solutions for Vehicles

• • Autonomous driving technology company ZMP Inc. is set to launch self-driving buses in Japan in collaboration with logistics company Hinomaru Kotsu Co.
  • The self-driving buses, equipped with ZMP’s autonomous driving technology, will operate on a fixed route in Tokyo’s Ota Ward.
  • The buses will transport passengers between the Haneda Airport and the city’s busy Ota Ward district.
  • The initiative aims to address the shortage of drivers and provide an efficient and convenient transportation option for commuters.
  • ZMP’s autonomous technology enables the buses to navigate urban environments, including handling traffic signals, pedestrians, and other vehicles.
  • The buses will undergo a trial period to test their safety and functionality before officially launching the service to the public.