The Best Car to Transform into a Self-Driving Vehicle: DIY or Market Solution?

The idea of turning a regular car into a self-driving vehicle has captured the imagination of many innovators and tech enthusiasts. However, the practicalities of such a project vary widely. In this article, we explore which car is the best choice for those considering a DIY approach versus purchasing a pre-designed self-driving vehicle.

Why Google Tried It, You Can Too?

Several answers from various sources suggest that transforming a car into a self-driving vehicle is no easy feat. While the technological challenges are significant, interesting DIY projects have shown that the process is possible. For example, some enthusiasts have managed to hack their Roomba and Xbox Kinect to create a basic autonomous vehicle setup. This kind of project demonstrates that with the right tools and creativity, it is possible to get started in the realm of self-driving technology.

If you are already into such endeavors and have a budget to spend, a drive-by-wire car might be the best starting point. IBM's initial prototype of the world's first self-driving car, the 'Tailslide,' utilized the Toyota Prius due to its electro-hydraulic steering and braking systems. These systems are more amenable to integration with advanced computing and sensor technologies. However, even a mid-sized vehicle would be sufficient, given the need for heavy hardware and powerfiul computing systems.

Why Not DIY? Practical Considerations

While the idea of taking a DIY approach to a self-driving car might seem exciting, there are significant practical obstacles. Firstly, the cost of high-quality sensors, cameras, and other necessary components can be substantial. Additionally, the technical expertise required to integrate these elements into a classic car is not trivial. The task involves rewriting the vehicle's firmware, reprogramming its systems, and ensuring compatibility with a wide range of new hardware.

According to many automotive and technology experts, attempting a DIY project with a standard car can be highly impractical. It is generally recommended to wait until the technology is sufficiently developed and tested to the point where it can be integrated with existing vehicles in a cost-effective and safe manner. Retrofitting an existing car involves modifying or replacing numerous systems to support autonomous functionality, which can be a complex and expensive process.

When to Invest: Future-Proof Solutions

Instead of trying to convert a regular car, it is more practical to wait for self-driving technology to advance to a point where it is at least as safe as an average human driver. It is also worth noting that 'average' drivers are not as safe as many believe. When the technological advancements reach a certain level, it will be safer to purchase a car with built-in self-driving capabilities rather than attempting a DIY conversion. This approach not only ensures a higher level of safety but also guarantees a more user-friendly experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the prospect of turning a regular car into a self-driving vehicle is intriguing, the reality is that it is a very complex and potentially dangerous DIY project. It is more advisable to wait for market-solution self-driving cars to become available. This way, you can enjoy the benefits of automation while ensuring a safer and more reliable driving experience.