It’s undeniable that artificial intelligence (AI) has been gaining more traction across several industries recently. It has existed for some time now, but recent advancements bring more capabilities than ever.
AI is gaining a significant foothold in healthcare, telecommunications, e-commerce, and education. It’s making waves everywhere, and the automotive industry is no exception!
Artificial intelligence in automotive is revolutionizing vehicle design and making driving experiences much easier for humans. It’s changing how we drive, interact with our cars, and manage vehicle maintenance. Do you remember wondering what it would be like if cars could fly? Well, we’re not there yet, but we can already see some exciting advances.
What is AI in automotive, and how does it work? Should we trust the future it’s bringing? Let’s explore the possibilities together!
Recap: Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence is the simulation of human intelligence in machines. Machines programmed to think and act like humans can make decisions and solve problems without human intervention. Basically, AI is like that robot you’ve seen in a TV show and always wanted in your life! However, it’s not as generic as that. Industries use it in different ways, maximizing how it mimics human cognitive activity.
AI used to be machines recognizing texts or calculating basic functions. Now, these functions are “inherent computer functions” as technology has evolved, and we have AI categories, including the following:
- Reactive AI: Artificial intelligence that uses algorithms and reacts to its environment without any memory.
- Limited Memory AI: Artificial intelligence that stores information from past experiences and uses it for decision-making.
- Theory-of-Mind AI: AI that can understand and empathize with humans on an emotional level.
- Self-Aware AI: AI that can think and behave based on its own beliefs, values, and objectives.
We can now find AI in our everyday lives, from online shopping to voice recognition, personal assistants, and facial recognition. In healthcare, AI is in use for diagnosis and treatment monitoring. In financial services, the technology is in fraud detection and risk assessment. The chatbots we use for customer service are also AI!
Artificial intelligence helps humans with various tasks, making things more efficient. So, when we talk about AI in automotive, we also talk about safety, convenience, and performance.
AI in Automotive
In 2021, the global automotive AI market size was estimated at USD 2.9 billion. By 2030, it’s projected to reach USD 19.1 billion, with a 23.3% CAGR from 2022 to 2030. Yes, AI in automotive is already massive! According to Capgemini Research Institute Analysis, Germany, Japan, and the US are the top three leaders in AI-led automotive startups. The automotive value chain effectively implemented in AI includes the following and more:
- Manufacturing
- Design
- Supply chain
- Production
- Post-production
- Driving assistance
- Driver risk assessment systems
The technology isn’t completely autonomous yet, but many drivers already reap the benefits of AI-powered vehicles today. Global autonomous vehicle sales are increasing annually; by 2025, 70% of licensed drivers in the US will be driving a connected car. Does that mean artificial intelligence in automotive is taking over? It looks like it!
Examples of Artificial Intelligence in Automotive
As mentioned earlier, AI in automotive isn’t flying, but it’s doing a lot of cool stuff. It’s not just about self-driving cars, though they’re one of the most visible AI applications of AI. By “cool stuff,” we mean features that people from the early 2000s would’ve thought of as science fiction! Here are 15 examples of AI in the automotive sector:
Digital Twins in Automotive Manufacturing
“Digital twin” is a virtual model of a physical product — in this case, a car. Manufacturers use digital twins to test new designs and technologies to ensure the parts are working or if they need improvement. Digital twins test fixes, repairs, and modifications before final production, saving companies time and money.
Generative Design
Speaking of car models, companies use generative design to create automotive parts that are durable and sustainable. Where is AI in this? Generative design uses algorithms to generate hundreds of variations of an object based on specific requirements. The AI-powered software then tests them for performance, material usage, and other parameters before creating the final design.
Quality Control
Of course, manufacturers should never overlook quality control, and AI makes this process faster and more accurate. Using computer vision, artificial intelligence in automotive can detect product defects to catch issues before they become a problem. While automotive manufacturing is becoming more automated, AI will help ensure flawless production and keep up with rapid launch cycles.
Demand Forecast
The automotive supply chain is complex, and forecasting demand is a challenge. Artificial intelligence helps companies overcome these problems by collecting data from various sources, analyzing it, and predicting future trends. It can also help with inventory optimization and supply chain planning.
Remote Vehicle Diagnostics
Imagine receiving timely alerts when your car needs maintenance or repair. That’s the power of AI! Artificial intelligence can diagnose issues and alert car owners before they become significant problems. Moreover, there’s no need to look for independent car repair shops; car owners can head to the manufacturers directly.
Predictive Maintenance
AI has put many connected sensors in cars, providing valuable insight into the car’s condition. Car owners and manufacturers can use this data to schedule maintenance, anticipate problems, and make necessary repairs. Artificial intelligence in automotive makes preventive maintenance and repair easier for everyone involved!
Emission Monitoring
Car emissions have a direct impact on air pollution and global warming. In fact, transportation is the fastest-growing emissions source globally! AI-based systems support environmentally-aware companies that aim to monitor and regulate vehicle emissions. AI contributes to reducing carbon footprints, making transportation more efficient and eco-friendly.
Enhanced Battery Engineering
Electric vehicles have also been booming in the automotive sector as more car owners switch to eco-friendly options. AI helps automakers design and manufacture improved batteries for electric cars, identifying the best materials and processes to create a powerful, durable battery. Batteries that last longer and function better are a massive boon for the automotive industry.
Automotive Insurance
AI is also streamlining the automotive insurance process. It can analyze car damages, process claims quickly and accurately, and provide better coverage options. Artificial intelligence can even recommend custom insurance plans tailored to car owners’ needs. Insurance fraud? No chance!
Cloud Services
IoT and cloud services are making cars smarter. AI connects vehicles to a global cloud network to improve efficiency, speed, and performance. Cars can communicate with each other, share data, and access information quickly! Automakers can also use the data to improve the manufacturing process, enhance customer experience, introduce new products, and more.
Personal Voice Assistants
Voice assistants are quickly becoming an integral part of our lives. Car makers have also jumped onto the bandwagon and introduced voice-activated automated systems to their vehicles. Artificial intelligence can help car owners access information, control the in-car environment, and even take over driving tasks when needed!
Driver Behavior Analytics
AI is also helping drivers become better car owners. Insights on oil change intervals, fuel consumption, brake usage, vehicle downtime, and more become accessible through AI! If car owners ever need an upgrade or repair, AI can quickly identify the best recommendations and actions.
Intelligent Driver Care
AI turns cars into companions that can keep drivers safe on the road. Driverless cars, autonomous driving systems, and parking assistance technologies are all intelligent actions supported by AI. Cars can assess body temperature, head position, eye movement, behavior, and more, providing an extra layer of road safety and security.
Fleet Management
AI is not only helping individual car owners; it’s also aiding fleet managers. Artificial intelligence provides data on road and traffic conditions, weather, and route optimization, enabling fleet managers to make better decisions. Should there be potential delays, AI can offer alternative routes, helping fleets reach their destination on time.
Navigation
AI-based systems are also making it easier to find our way around. Artificial intelligence provides real-time traffic information, identifies the best routes, and even suggests points of interest along the way. With AI in automotive, drivers can reach their destination faster and more accurately!
Benefits of Artificial Intelligence in Automotive
Can you hear car owners from the 2000s gasping? Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the automotive industry in so many ways! It reduces emissions, improves battery engineering, offers better insurance solutions, makes cars smarter, and provides intelligent driver care.
Artificial intelligence is here to stay, and it’s providing plenty of benefits for car owners and manufacturers all over the world. Based on the above-mentioned examples of AI applications in the automotive industry, here are seven benefits that the technology is bringing to the table:
Personalized Driving Experience
Driving becomes not just a chore but an enjoyable experience with AI. Artificial intelligence provides real-time information, suggests alternate routes, and offers tailored options for the driver’s needs. As a result, drivers can enjoy a more personalized driving experience.
Road Safety
With connected cars on the road and various driver assistance technologies, AI is helping car owners stay safe on the road. Artificial intelligence can detect hazardous conditions quickly, alerting drivers to take appropriate action. Anti-lock braking systems (ABS), blind spot monitoring, lane departure warnings, and more are all worthwhile AI-driven features.
Traffic Management
AI is transforming the way we manage traffic on our roads. Artificial intelligence provides real-time data and insights into traffic conditions, helping authorities take appropriate action to reduce congestion and optimize journey times. Nobody wants to be stuck in traffic, and AI is here to help!
Emergency Response
Faster response times are critical in emergencies, and AI helps make this possible. Artificial intelligence monitors driver behavior, assesses environmental conditions, and quickly alerts involved people if needed. It also helps create safer roads, making it easier for emergency services to reach their destination on time.
Fuel Efficiency
AI-driven systems are also helping reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Car manufacturers use AI to design more fuel-efficient engines that conserve fuel. Moreover, AI identifies the best routes, predicts traffic density, and suggests alternate ways, contributing to a more efficient driving experience.
Environment-Friendliness
Besides saving time and money, AI also helps save the environment. AI reduces environmental impact with electric cars, hybrid models, intelligent driver care, and more. Artificial intelligence offers a more sustainable way of driving and helps lower emissions.
Streamlined Insurance
Lastly, car owners are taking advantage of AI to maximize insurance savings. Artificial intelligence enables car owners to find the best insurance policies for their needs and budget, eliminating the guesswork from the process. Car damages or accidents are detected quickly, assessment processes become more accessible and objective, and insurance companies can process claims faster.
Should We Trust AI in the Automotive Industry?
Owning a car with all these AI-driven features may make you feel like you’re unstoppable. You take to the road confidently, knowing that AI is there to help you. And with the countless benefits of AI in automotive, nothing can go wrong! But should we trust AI completely in the industry? Perhaps not entirely, at least for now.
Generally, AI has lots of conflicts of interest. Some believe it’s untrustworthy, and humans are still the best decision-makers. But if AI is a human intelligence simulation, is it any less reliable?
Ultimately, AI is nowhere near perfect, but it’s also far from being a danger. It can’t completely replace humans, but it’s taking industries to levels humans alone couldn’t reach or need more time to reach.
Artificial intelligence is a powerful tool, and when used correctly, it can have immense benefits in the automotive industry. For now, the advantages that car manufacturers and owners get from AI outweigh the risks. Artificial intelligence is the way of the future. If there’s a reason not to trust it, it’s probably because we don’t understand its full potential yet.
The Future of AI and Cars
It’s no longer impossible to find driverless cars on the road. Drivers may never stress about finding a parking spot again, and roads will be safer than ever. Artificial intelligence has the potential to play a major role in the automotive industry, and we can expect more advancements. AI can help us shape a better, more sustainable way of driving! What will the roads look like in five years? We have yet to discover the answer, but let’s sit back and enjoy the ride!
