Volvo made a strong move that shows how serious it is about being No. 1 in autonomous driving area.
Volvo released a 3-minute video that details the key steps in the transition to and from self-driving mode using its so-called “IntelliSafe Auto Pilot.” Autonomous mode is activated and deactivated with specially designed paddles on the steering wheel.
The paddles flash when the auto pilot is ready, at which point the driver pulls both paddles simultaneously to activate autonomous mode. The lights on the paddles then change to constant green, signaling that the car is driving itself. When the driver needs to regain control of the car a 60-second countdown is displayed. If the driver doesn't use the paddles to regain control within this minute, the car will bring itself to a safe stop.
Volvo has an advantage when it comes to autonomous driving because the ones who will be credible in this area will be the ones who are credible in safety. That's why Volvo wants to be No. 1.