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Hacker's Tech Stops at Red Lights!
23 Sep
Summary
- Comma 3 can now recognize and stop at red lights.
- System uses cameras, not pre-mapped roads, for navigation.
- George Hotz aims for a humanoid robot chauffeur.
George Hotz's Comma.ai has released the Comma 3, an advanced driver-assist system featuring novel red light recognition. The system utilizes two forward-facing cameras, similar to a human head, to perceive the road and traffic conditions. Unlike systems from Ford or GM that require pre-mapped roads, the Comma 3 operates effectively on any road by analyzing lane markings and surrounding vehicles.
During a demonstration drive in Las Vegas, the Comma 3, installed in a Kia EV6, showcased its capabilities. It smoothly handles adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and lane changes. A key upgrade is its ability to detect and stop for red lights, then gently accelerate when the light turns green, offering a more intuitive experience than some other systems. It also demonstrates a more natural driving path through turns.
The Comma 3 is compatible with over 200 vehicles, with Comma.ai aiming for a Chinese manufacturer to integrate the technology by 2028. Priced at $1,499, with additional costs for storage and a wiring harness, the system is currently in 5,000 vehicles. Hotz's long-term vision is to develop a humanoid robot chauffeur, with the Comma 3 representing an intermediate step.
Despite its advancements, the Comma 3 is a driver-assist system, not a fully autonomous solution. Users must remain attentive and ready to take control. The system disengaged once in a confusing intersection, highlighting the need for driver oversight. Hotz views the system as a "human-like robot," emphasizing its responsiveness to subtle driver inputs.
