Honda Legend, all set to become the world’s ‘first’ Level 3 semi-autonomous car

As per Honda's latest announcement they have "received the required type designation for Level 3 automated driving" from the Japanese government. Making the automaker world’s ‘first’ automobile manufacturer to attain Level 3 autonomous driving certification.

The certification means that the automaker can offer Level 3 tech in its car for use in certain circumstances. Their latest development in technology will be implemented on the upcoming ‘Legend’ flagship sedan.

The Japanese government has exclaimed their movement to be "world first," expressing that this would make Honda, the first automaker to mass-produce self-driving vehicles. While the auto market is already flooded with the likes of Tesla's Autopilot and General Motors' Supercruise, Honda’s is different as its competition is still over Level 2 systems.

As per the official records, even while Honda has been certified with the Level 3 autonomous systems, there are certain rules that need to be followed. The following rules are focused on driver safety and protocols set by the Government of Japan.

The rules state that: 

“The equipment must not cause any concern that compromises the safety of vehicle occupants or other road users under the operable driving environment conditions.”

“The equipment must not operate unless all required operable driving environment conditions are fulfilled.”

“Before any of operable driving environment conditions become unsatisfactory, the equipment must warn the driver of the transfer of control (handover) back to the driver and must continue safe driving until the handover is completed. When the handover cannot be made, the equipment must safely stop the vehicle.”

Other precautionary measures that are included in the list hover around the driver’s control over the vehicle and under conditions when the driver is unable to control the vehicle, it should be at a halt.

Honda also needs to lay emphasis on the cybersecurity measures, as per rules set by the Japanese government. These measures will prevent hackers from tampering with the car.

Lastly, Honda self-driving cars also need stickers helping others identify them easily. 

Also Read: Honda showcased its SUV e-concept at the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition