Are you ready to experience the future of driving? Self-driving cars are no longer science fiction, and many manufacturers are offering vehicles with advanced driver-assistance systems. These systems can handle some of the tasks of driving, making your commute more relaxing and convenient.
This blog post will explore ten of the best self-driving cars available in 2024, ranging from luxury sedans to electric SUVs. Whether you’re looking for cutting-edge technology, affordability, or a spacious interior, there’s a self-driving car on this list that’s perfect for you.
1. Zoox:
Zoox is a company revolutionizing transportation through self-driving vehicles. Their goal is to transform how people get around, especially in crowded cities. They envision a future with safer, cleaner, and more enjoyable transportation through a ride-hailing service with self-driving vehicles built specifically for this purpose.
Zoox vehicles are unlike any other on the road, even those that are in the same niche with Zoox. They boast Level 5 autonomy, meaning they can handle any driving situation entirely on their own. Forget a traditional car layout – Zoox vehicles are symmetrical, allowing for easy travel in both directions without the need of human assist. There’s no steering wheel or pedals because these vehicles are fully automated. A sophisticated software system handles everything, freeing up cabin space for a passenger-centric experience.
Zoox Safety Features:
But Zoox goes beyond these features. Their vehicles prioritize safety by eliminating human error, a major cause of accidents. They’re equipped with over 100 safety features and a powerful computer for quick decision-making. Additionally, communication between Zoox vehicles can optimize traffic flow, potentially reducing congestion and travel times. To be specific, Zoox comes with ACU (Airbag Control Unit) which detects collision in all directions. Unlike traditional vehicles that typically have airbags for the driver and front passenger, Zoox equips all seats with airbags, making it much safer for all occupants. Including:
- Frontal Airbag.
- Rear Airbag.
- Side Heading Airbag.
- Seat Side Airbag.
- Horseshoe Curtain Airbag.
By equipping all seats with airbags, Zoox ensures comprehensive occupant protection in case of a collision, enhancing overall safety for everyone on board. Zoox also juice the safety aspect with advance seat belt configuration. Upon passenger detection, the system combines seatbelt monitor data indicating a fastened buckle with in-vehicle camera verification to ensure the belt is securely fastened across the lap and shoulder. This means Zoox also comes with: Sensors for seatbelt occupancy detection and In-Vehicle cameras for seatbelt fastening verification.
Assuming a passenger refuse to fasten their seatbelt, what will happen? Zoox won’t move an inch until all occupants are securely and properly fastened their seatbelt.
Zoox’s vision for the future is even bolder. They envision a world where mobility is a service, not car ownership. This would involve designing entire mobility systems, including infrastructure, software, and new transportation ecosystems. This would make transportation more accessible, efficient, and environmentally friendly, fundamentally transforming our current car-centric culture. It’s important to note that Zoox vehicles are not intended for individual ownership. They will function more like a taxi service, aiming to transform our current transportation landscape.
2. Cruise Origin:
At first glance, the Cruise Origin doesn’t resemble any car we’ve seen before. With its sleek design and spacious interior, it’s clear that Cruise is reimagining the concept of transportation from the ground up. Gone are the traditional features like steering wheels and pedals—instead, the Origin offers a roomy, comfortable space for passengers to relax and enjoy the ride.
Approaching the Origin, you’ll notice its unique exterior, which shares the dimensions of a crossover SUV but diverges in its layout and functionality. To enter the vehicle, passengers input a code on a keypad, reminiscent of a futuristic minivan that opens from both sides. Inside, the absence of traditional controls creates an open, inviting atmosphere, with two bench seats facing each other and ample space in between.
Cruise, closely tied to General Motors (GM), aims to revolutionize urban mobility with its fleet of autonomous vehicles. With over 160 self-driving test vehicles already on the streets of San Francisco, Cruise envisions a future where fully driverless robo taxi services seamlessly integrate into city life. Backed by substantial venture capital funding, including a significant investment from Honda, Cruise is poised to lead the way in autonomous transportation.
3. Tesla Model S Plaid.
The Tesla Model S Plaid is a revolutionary electric vehicle that boasts one of the most advanced self-driving systems on the market, called “Tesla FSD“. Also, its feature called “Summon” allow the car to remotely move within a short distance using the Tesla app. This high-performance car can handle almost any driving situation with minimal intervention from the driver. With a starting price of $130,000, the Model S Plaid offers features like Traffic Awareness Cruise Control, automatic steering and lane changes, and self-parking. The Tesla Model S Plaid serves as the powerhouse in California, it’s known as a fixture on Californian roads, not just for speed but also its advanced driving system.
4. Nissan Leaf:
This an affordable self-driving option. The Nissan Leaf is a great choice. With its ProPILOT Assist technology, the Leaf combines affordability with advanced features like lane centering and automatic emergency braking. This hatchback starts at just $30,000, making it a budget-friendly entry point into the world of self-driving cars. In 2023, Nissan sold total of 6,083 of its Leaf models in the EV market. And of course those numbers applies to only USA. In first quarter of 2024, 1,143 Leafs have been already sold to potential users, this affordable hatchback in the US and other countries due to suite of self-driving technology advancement known as “ProPILOT Assist“, although it’s not top seller, it still fit those crave self-driving functionality.
5. Waymo One:
Welcome back to part five of our top ten self-driving cars countdown! This time, we’re ditching the research and reviews and diving headfirst into a real-life experience with Waymo, the self-driving car service from Google. Waymo’s journey began back in 2009 as Project Chauffeur. Since then, they’ve poured years of research and billions of dollars into developing their self-driving technology. In 2016, Waymo became its own company, and in 2018, launched Waymo One, their self-driving car hailing service.
Waymo’s self-driving cars are packed with sensors. They use a combination of radar, lidar (which fires lasers to build a 3D picture of the world), and cameras to see everything around them, even in bad weather. This data is then fed into Waymo’s powerful software, which allows the car to navigate the roads safely and efficiently.
One of the biggest concerns with self-driving cars is safety. Waymo has a strong safety record, with over 20 million miles driven in the real world without any serious accidents. Their cars are constantly learning and improving, making them statistically safer than human drivers.
6. Volkswagen ID.4.
The Volkswagen ID.4 is a value-packed electric crossover with a starting price of $40,000. This 5-seater offers an advanced self-driving system with features like hands-free steering and automatic lane centering. The ID.4 is a great choice for those who prioritize space, comfort, and function in a self-driving car.
7. Lincoln Navigator.
If you’re looking for a luxurious self-driving experience with ample space for passengers and cargo, the Lincoln Navigator is a perfect choice. This full-size SUV features Lincoln’s advanced driver-assistance system, which includes automatic highway driving and parking assistance. With a powerful V6 engine and comfortable seating for up to eight passengers, the Navigator is ideal for families and those who love to travel in style. The starting price for this self-driving Lincoln is $80,000.
8. BMW 7 Series.
The redesigned BMW 7 Series combines luxury with cutting-edge self-driving technology. This feature-rich sedan boasts a suite of driver-assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and various semi-autonomous driving modes. Starting at $140,000, the 7 Series offers powerful engine options, a luxurious interior, and a responsive touchscreen infotainment system.
9. Ford Mustang Mach-E.
The Ford Mustang Mach-E is a stylish electric SUV that offers a comprehensive semi-autonomous driving package. This 5-seater crossover combines Mustang-inspired design with practicality, making it a great choice for those who want a sporty and sustainable driving experience. With a starting price of $45,000, the Mach-E offers an impressive range (over 312 miles) and a spacious interior with plenty of tech features.
10. Mercedes-Benz S-Class:
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is the epitome of luxury and technological innovation. This full-size sedan offers a seamless blend of comfort and cutting-edge self-driving features. The S-Class boasts a powerful engine, a luxurious interior with high-quality materials, and advanced technology like air suspension and active noise cancellation. With a starting price of $116,000, the S-Class caters to those who demand the best in self-driving luxury.
This list provides a starting point for your research into the exciting world of self-driving cars. With so many great options available, you’re sure to find the perfect car that meets your needs and budget. Remember, self-driving technology is still under development, so it’s important to be aware of the limitations of these systems and always stay engaged while behind the wheel.