Rapid technological advancements, especially in AI, signal that autonomous driving is just around the corner, but legislation remains a significant roadblock
An autonomous car is defined as a vehicle capable of performing all driving functions from origin to destination without any human intervention. Although fully autonomous vehicles are not yet commercially available, existing technologies like Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) can intervene in potentially dangerous situations.
Autonomous driving is categorized into six levels, from zero (manual driving) to five (fully automated). Level one (assisted driving) already incorporates ADAS features. Level two (partially automated) allows the car to control both lateral and longitudinal movement, but it cannot react to unexpected obstacles. Level three (conditional automation) enables the driver to engage the system and relinquish control of the steering wheel, nevertheless, they must remain attentive and ready to take over when prompted. Level four (highly automated driving) requires human intervention only outside the system’s operational design domain and can be deactivated. Level five (fully automated driving) requires no steering wheel or pedals; humans are simply passengers.
We are currently between levels two and three, yet rapid AI development is accelerating the timeline for achieving level five autonomy in the near to medium term. The emergence of Chinese AI company DeepSeek could further accelerate progress through large-scale expansion and cost reduction. European automakers are already integrating AI into some vehicles to enhance safety and improve fuel efficiency. Examples include the Predictive Hybrid Drive system in the Renault E-Tech full hybrid range and the Reno virtual assistant in the electric Renault 5 E-Tech.
Despite this technological progress, legislation remains a major obstacle. In Spain, driving without hands on the wheel is prohibited (with limited exceptions on certain highways for the Ford Mustang Mach-E). California and some other US states permit semi-autonomous driving. In Europe, Switzerland has allowed level 3 autonomous driving under specific conditions since March.
