Yes, Nissan offers advanced driver-assistance systems that include hands-free driving capabilities, notably with its ProPILOT Assist 2.1 technology.
Nissan's Journey Towards Automated Driving
While Nissan's systems provide significant driving assistance, it's important to differentiate them from full "self-driving" technology (Level 4 or 5 autonomy) where the vehicle can operate completely without human intervention in most or all conditions. Nissan's ProPILOT Assist falls under Level 2 or 2+ on the SAE International scale of driving automation, meaning the driver must remain engaged and ready to take control.
What is ProPILOT Assist?
Nissan's ProPILOT Assist is an advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) designed to make long drives and stop-and-go traffic less fatiguing. It combines steering assistance and intelligent cruise control to help drivers maintain their lane and speed, as well as keep a set distance from the vehicle ahead.
Key features typically include:
- Intelligent Cruise Control: Automatically adjusts speed to maintain a preset distance from the vehicle in front.
- Steering Assist: Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
ProPILOT Assist 2.1: Hands-Free Driving Capability
The latest iteration, ProPILOT Assist 2.1, elevates the driving experience by offering hands-free driving under specific conditions. This system is a significant step forward, providing enhanced assistance for a more relaxing ride.
ProPILOT Assist 2.1 features include:
- Hands-Free Driving: Allows the driver to remove their hands from the steering wheel on approved highways, provided they remain attentive to the road.
- Lane Change Assistance: Can assist with lane changes when prompted by the driver.
- Real-Time Traffic Monitoring: Integrates traffic data to optimize performance.
- Intelligent Cruise Control: Maintains distance and speed with enhanced precision.
Availability
ProPILOT Assist 2.1 is currently available on specific trims of popular Nissan models, such as the Nissan Rogue SL and Platinum trim, with plans for expansion to more vehicles in the future.
Understanding Driving Automation Levels
To clarify the "self-driving" capabilities, here's a simplified breakdown of the SAE International J3016 standard for levels of driving automation:
| Level | Name | Description | Driver Role | Example |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | No Automation | No driving automation. | Full | Basic cruise control |
| 1 | Driver Assistance | Vehicle assists with either steering OR acceleration/braking. | Full | Adaptive cruise control |
| 2 | Partial Automation | Vehicle assists with both steering AND acceleration/braking simultaneously. | Full (monitor environment) | Nissan ProPILOT Assist (Hands-on) |
| 2+ | Enhanced Partial Automation | Provides hands-free capability in certain conditions but requires monitoring. | Full (monitor environment) | Nissan ProPILOT Assist 2.1 (Hands-free) |
| 3 | Conditional Automation | Vehicle handles most driving, but driver must be ready to intervene. | Backup (intervene when prompted) | Honda Legend's Traffic Jam Pilot |
| 4 | High Automation | Vehicle can operate fully without human input in specific conditions. | Optional (only in ODD) | Waymo, Cruise (limited areas) |
| 5 | Full Automation | Vehicle can operate fully without human input in all conditions. | None | Future concept |
Nissan's ProPILOT Assist 2.1 firmly positions itself within Level 2+, offering advanced features that enhance convenience and safety, but always with the understanding that the driver is ultimately responsible and must supervise the system.
