Indian startup Minus Zero is developing zPod, a self-driving public transport vehicle with its own intelligence.
zPod undergoing road testing. Video : Minus Zero
The zPod is described as India's first autonomous vehicle, built on artificial intelligence developed by Minus Zero itself. In other words, they built AI software that teaches the zPod how to drive itself. In fact, they created AI with key computing capabilities derived from how the brain works, Design Boom reported on December 12.
Minus Zero's AI software is inspired by how the human brain processes information using neurons. In turn, the AI seeks to mimic how the brain processes problems, then contributes to zPod's learning, behavioral perception, adaptation, episodic memory, and decision-making. According to the research team, through AI design based on the human brain, the self-driving vehicle can decide where and how to go, how to avoid obstacles and accidents on the road, and how to handle problems encountered on the road, compared to relying entirely on computer algorithms. In August 2023, Minus Zero put zPod to the test on the road and carried passengers autonomously.
Using AI software, Minus Zero developed True Vision Autonomy, the system installed in the zPod self-driving vehicle. This system is not only scalable but also operates in a variety of scenarios. To drive autonomously, zPod uses cameras instead of sensors to observe and understand the road and surrounding conditions. The automated system, comprising both software and hardware, is designed to operate in real time, allowing zPod to make quick decisions while driving. Minus Zero states that the technology focuses on safety, especially in emergency situations, ensuring passengers are not endangered.
The zPod also integrates a GPS system for navigation. As the camera scans the surrounding environment, the vehicle can capture a 360-degree view, thereby predicting whether to continue moving forward or stop to yield to other vehicles. As the camera takes real-time photos and assesses the surroundings, the images are processed by a computer system located in the seat.
Minus Zero states that they installed two processing systems on the vehicle: an active system that enables fully autonomous driving, while a backup system makes decisions in case of roadside breakdowns or engine malfunctions. The zPod can carry four passengers seated facing each other on either side in comfortable seats.
An Khang (According to Design Boom )
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