Nissan has begun demonstrations of its next-generation ProPILOT advanced driver-assist technology with a fleet of all-electric Nissan Ariya-based prototype vehicles, showcasing their ability to navigate the complex urban environment of central Tokyo. This technology, set to be launched in Japan during fiscal year 2027, combines Wayve's AI Driver software and Nissan's Ground Truth Perception technology, which uses next-generation lidar. The vehicles are equipped with 11 cameras, five radar sensors and a lidar sensor, contributing to the system's advanced capabilities.

Wayve's AI Driver software utilizes embodied AI technology, processing image data from onboard cameras to facilitate smooth, safe driving in urban settings. It can understand and predict changes in the environment, adapting like a skilled human driver. This software is inspired by human cognition, allowing it to grasp entire driving scenes and respond to a variety of scenarios. Its high-speed processing ensures real-time responses to changes in driving conditions.

The Ground Truth Perception technology, with its high-performance lidar sensor, is crucial for detecting objects at greater distances, enhancing safety, particularly at high speeds and during nighttime driving. Nissan aims to advance its ProPILOT technology from single-lane highway driving to providing reliable assistance on complex urban roads, as highlighted by Chief Technology Officer Eiichi Akashi. This initiative is part of Nissan's broader strategy to innovate mobility, making it cleaner, safer and more accessible, aligning with its goals to enhance technological capabilities and competitiveness. The next-generation ProPILOT system is expected to be available on select models in Japan beginning in fiscal year 2027.

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