Self-Driving Vehicle Updates: Continental, Aurora, Zoox, Aeva, and Ghost in Focus

In a significant shift towards autonomous driving, a recent survey reveals that 67% of respondents are willing to pay at least $100 a month for the technology. This trend is further emphasized by the fact that 78% are ready to make an upfront payment of $5,000 or more for autonomous driving services on top of their car purchase.

The survey, which garnered insights from over 1,200 participants across diverse age groups, income levels, and geographical regions, also highlighted safety as the number one priority for new car buyers. This priority, ahead of keyless or phone-based entry, premium infotainment systems, premium trims, and EVs, underscores the importance consumers place on safety in autonomous vehicles.

Interestingly, 59% of respondents would choose their next car based on the availability of autonomous driving technology. This preference is further reinforced by the finding that 52% of those who have experienced self-driving vehicles in-person would accelerate their next car purchase if fully autonomous capabilities were available today.

Aeva, a sensing and perception systems leader, has been selected as a Tier 1 LiDAR supplier for a top global automotive OEM's series production vehicle program. This production win, one of the largest in its class, positions Aeva to become a trusted direct Tier 1 supplier to automotive OEMs globally. Aeva uses surface electroluminescence technology for its 4D-LiDAR sensors, but the specific type of electroluminescence technology and the partner's name are not detailed in the available information. Aeva expects to reveal more details about this major win together with the OEM in early 2024.

Continental and Aurora will demonstrate the start of Level 4 autonomous rucking at CES. Nuro and Foretellix are also partnering for last-mile delivery at the same event.

The survey by Ghost Autonomy also revealed that three in four consumers expressed a strong preference for fully autonomous driving over robotaxis. This preference is particularly pronounced among younger drivers, with 73% of drivers between the ages of 21-29 and 69% of drivers between the ages of 30-39 wanting fully autonomous driving in their cars within the next five years.

Tesla owners exhibit the highest rate of exposure to self-driving features and are at the forefront of the market in their enthusiasm for autonomous technology. According to the survey, 80% of Tesla owners cite advanced driver assistance features as a critical factor in their vehicle purchasing decision. An overwhelming 88% of Tesla owners express a desire for full autonomy in their next car.

The findings of this survey underscore the growing acceptance and demand for autonomous driving technology among consumers. As more companies invest in and demonstrate this technology, it is expected that the adoption of autonomous vehicles will continue to increase in the coming years.