Lucid just revealed more every crunchy detail about its sophisticated driver-assistance system, called DreamDrive, featuring 32 external components, including cameras and radars.
We already know how efficient and capable the Lucid Air really is. Rewinding the clock a few weeks, the EPA recently estimated the Dream Edition R possesses a range of 520 miles on a single charge, literally crushing the competition. But even when keepîng the incredible range out of the equation, the Air oozes luxury and comes with several other innovative features such as Bi-directional charging, a blazingly fast charging speed (350kW) thanks to the 900V system, and a see-through roof. Still, what might very well be the most impressive gadget is Lucid’s very own DreamDrive, which the company briefed a few times before, but now the whole thing is finally revealed.
Unsurprisingly, at the heart of the sophisticated driver-assistance system lies a wide range of smart sensors and electronics, all working in unison to paint a picture of the car’s surroundings. Lucid’s DreamDrive Pro is equipped with 32 components in total, including 14 external cameras, five short-range radars, four surround-view cameras, an array of ultrasonic sensors, and a solid-state Lidar.
The complex web of hardware is all brought together by state-of-the-art software and an advanced display in the center console. For starters, the strategically mounted external and surround-view cameras provide a complete 360 degree visual of the vehicle, including blind spots and other regions beyond the driver’s eyesight. Thanks to the Lidar sensor, the Air even comes with adaptive cruise control, lane assist, centering collision warnings, and automatic emergency braking, all claimed to be even more accurate than anything else out there. What makes it even more interesting is that the Air can even alert the driver of sudden lane switches with direction-specific audible warnings using the 21 surround sound speakers!
DreamDrive also features a driver drowsiness warning system. It uses an infrared camera mounted on the steering wheel along with sensors to remind the driver to keep his hands on the wheel. It also tracks eye and head position, but also facial recognition to determine whether the driver is attentive or not. Depending on the situation and driving habits, the software can either send alerts or suggest a place nearby to grab a cup of coffee or a quick bite. And as a bonus for urban scenarios, the Air is also equipped with Auto Park capabilities, suitable for perpendicular and parallel parking situations. The vehicle can take control of the steering, brakes, and throttle to maneuver into any slot, no matter how tight.
Seems interesting? Expect things to get even better as Lucid plans to roll out several new advanced features, including full-self-driving soon!
