Autoliv, the automotive safety systems provider signs a research agreement with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) AgeLab, for developing semi-autonomous vehicle prototype.

The two-year research collaboration will aim to develop a semi-autonomous vehicle prototype for demonstrating the future of human-centered artificial intelligence in the automotive space. 

The focus for the research collaboration is to develop artificial intelligence systems that understand and manage the state of the driver to create a safe and enjoyable experience in semi-autonomous vehicles.  

The research effort will see the development and real world evaluation of deep learning algorithms that enable effective communication and transfer of control between human and machine. This includes sensing driver gaze, emotion, cognitive load, drowsiness, hand position, posture, and fusing this information with the perception of the driving environment to create safe, reliable vehicles that drivers can learn to trust. 

Commenting on the collaboration, Lex Fridman, MIT, says "We are looking to lead the world in the application of state-of-the art deep learning methods for semi-autonomous vehicle systems in a way that ensures the human being is the core focus of every algorithm and interface we build". 

"It is clear that the global focus on autonomous vehicles must begin to consider increased investment in human centered vehicle system that support appropriate driver engagement through trusted safety and an enjoyable mobility experience," says Bryan Reimer, MIT. "We believe that drivers will be traversing the world's roadways for decades to come as higher levels of automation steadily increases."

Commenting on the research focus, Ola Bostrom, VP research, Autoliv said: "Today, 1.4 million people die in traffic fatalities every year. Investments in vehicle automation such as Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) will increase road safety, but the introduction of assistance technology is not enough. To save more lives, we need to establish trust between the driver and the car's intelligence. I am confident that this collaboration with leading researchers will accelerate the industry's ability to deliver future safety solutions." 

As per the company announcement, learnings from the research collaboration will likely be used in the development of software from Zenuity, the software joint venture between Autoliv and Volvo Cars.