Nissan Claims Its AI-Enhanced ProPilot Could Be “Somewhat Smarter” Than Tesla’s FSD | Carscoops

      Using LiDAR and AI, Nissan's upcoming ProPilot system will enable hands-free driving in urban settings.

      14 hours ago

      by Michael Gauthier

      Nissan’s next-generation semi-autonomous technology will navigate intricate city streets.

      It leverages advanced LiDAR and Wayve AI to replicate skilled human driving.

      The system was demonstrated in Tokyo, successfully operating hands-free through intersections.

      Nissan has introduced its next-generation ProPILOT semi-autonomous driving system, set to debut in Japan during the 2027 fiscal year, which concludes on March 31, 2028. This new system significantly surpasses the capabilities of Nissan's current offering and incorporates next-gen LiDAR along with Wayve AI Driver software.

      The recent demonstration took place in Tokyo using a fleet of Ariya prototypes, outfitted with 11 cameras, five radars, and a single LiDAR sensor that is mounted on the roof, allowing it to identify objects at greater distances than the cameras. Nissan stated that this feature enhances safety during high-speed and nighttime driving.

      More: We Go Hands-Free With ProPilot Assist 2.1

      During the demonstration in Tokyo, Tetsuya Iijima, Nissan’s general manager of driver-assist technologies, commented to Auto News, “It’s comparable to Tesla’s Full Self-Driving, but ours may be a bit more sophisticated.” He mentioned that the system is designed to better navigate the narrow, busy, pedestrian-filled streets of the Japanese capital than Tesla’s technology. However, while Tesla's system is currently available, Nissan’s won't be ready for at least another year and a half, and will likely launch in Japan first.

      AI Takes The Wheel

      In addition to incorporating LiDAR, the next-gen ProPILOT system utilizes AI to analyze data from its sensors. The automaker claims it can “understand its surroundings and predict future events, as well as how its actions will influence the environment, enabling it to drive safely in sync with its surroundings like an experienced human driver.”

      Nissan further explained that the system’s rapid processing capabilities enable the AI driver to react promptly to sudden changes and comprehend how “entire driving scenarios unfold, rather than just responding to individual objects.”

      Thanks to these advancements, the system is expected to “adapt to a diverse range of real-world situations and make precise decisions even in complex circumstances, similar to a knowledgeable and alert human.” This aims to facilitate “smooth and safe driving in intricate urban environments.”

      Beyond The Highway

      This marks a significant shift, as the existing ProPILOT and ProPILOT 2.0 systems are designed primarily for highway use. The latter allows for hands-free driving, which has been “well-received,” according to Nissan’s Chief Technology Officer, Eiichi Akashi. However, he stated that “Nissan’s next-generation ProPILOT technology will introduce even more innovative functionalities, providing an experience akin to having a skilled human driver at the wheel. It will adjust to more complicated traffic conditions and instill greater confidence and peace of mind—enhancing safety not just for the driver but for all road users.”

      While the company did not elaborate extensively, it mentioned that the next generation of ProPILOT will be a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving system that requires a driver to supervise its function and be prepared to intervene if required. The automaker also showcased prototypes operating hands-free in downtown Tokyo.

      A Glimpse Of What’s Next

      The video suggests remarkable capabilities, including hands-free turns onto new roads. The prototypes are also capable of automatic lane changes and stopping for pedestrians, resuming motion automatically when they exit the crosswalk.