Not drive-by-wire-drive-by-CAN

Test-system specialist AB Dynamics has developed new drive-by-wire technology that enables test vehicles-including autonomous vehicles (AVs)-to be driven entirely via a CAN or ethernet connection, without the need for a human driver or bulky physical robotic actuators. Positioned as a cost- and hardware-saving alternative, the Flex-0 system complements existing driving-robot systems and is already in use by Volvo for a range of advanced test applications.

According to Andrew Pick, business director at Track Test Systems, widespread use of electronic vehicles systems permitted AB Dynamics an opportunity to control the vehicle directly through its CAN network, using a path-following approach but eliminating much of the test hardware that is normally required.