Samsung Becomes Latest to Get the Okay to Test Autonomous Cars

author: Vineeth Joel Patel   

Before the U.S. government introduces a sweeping bill that allows automakers and technology companies to test autonomous cars wherever they'd like in the country, companies are at the mercy of individual states' regulations. California requires companies to receive a permit from the DMV before taking their vehicles to public roads. 

Samsung Joins California's Busy Roads

Samsung Electronics, a South Korean multinational electronics company, has just obtained a permit from the California DMV, allowing the company to test its autonomous technology in the state. Samsung has become the latest company to join the growing list, which includes Apple Inc., Waymo, Mercedes Benz, Honda, Ford, BMW, Nissan, and many, many more. 

CNET reports that Samsung confirmed the news in a statement, but claimed that it didn't have any plans to manufacture driverless vehicles. "As a global leader in connectivity, memory, and sensor technology, Samsung Electronics looks forward to participating in California's Autonomous Vehicle Tester Program and joining in the pursuit of a smarter, safer transportation future," said a Samsung spokesman. "While we have no plans to enter the car-manufacturing business, we are excited to help develop and deliver the next generation of automotive innovation." 

As Mashable reports, Samsung will probably use vehicles from Hyundai that are fitted with the company's autonomous technology, similar to what Apple's doing with Lexus RX 450h SUVs. Samsung will be putting its new permit to good use by collecting on-road data to help improve its system. 

Another Part Of Samsung's Driverless-Car Plans

While the move to start testing its driverless technology in the United States is a smart way for Samsung to improve on its autonomous technology and to obtain vital data on ways it can improve, the technology company is a little late to the party as its rivals have already racked up millions of miles in their autonomous vehicles, putting the tech company in a position to play catch-up. 

Samsung may not have been testing its self-driving technology in the U.S., but it has been busy in South Korea. As Engadget reports, the tech company received a permit to test driverless tech in its home country of South Korea earlier this year. And, just like before, the automaker claimed that it wasn't working on an actual vehicle, but was interested in developing cameras and sensors for the self-driving cars. As the outlet claims, the technology company utilized vehicles from Hyundai as the basis for its testing. 

Testing isn't the only thing Samsung has been doing when it comes to developing new autonomous technology, as the automaker recently acquired Harman International Industries for a whopping $8 billion. Harman, an American company that's headquartered in Stamford, Conn. has increased its reach in modern times to include designing connected products for other automakers, consumers, and various enterprises around the world. With help from Harman and its new permit, Samsung could very well be on its way to making large strides in the autonomous scene. 

via: CNET, Mashable, Engadget

Vineeth Joel Patel

Joel Patel has been covering all aspects of the automotive industry for four years as an editor and freelance writer for various websites. When it comes to cars, he enjoys covering the merger between technology and cars. In his spare time, Joel likes to watch baseball, work on his car, and try new foods