About Continental and its Research Center in Querétaro
Continental, a prominent automotive company, is currently developing an innovative system called the Minimum Risk Maneuver (MRM) for autonomous driving at its Research and Development Center in Querétaro, Mexico. This center employs around 600 professionals dedicated to software, hardware, and system design.
The Minimum Risk Maneuver System
The MRM system ensures that, in case of a failure or external factor, the secondary brain of the vehicle takes control. According to David Pineda Deom, Director of the Querétaro center, this system is designed for level four autonomous vehicles.
- Level four autonomy implies that, under specific conditions (e.g., on a highway at a certain speed in a relatively known environment), the vehicle can operate independently.
- In case of any circumstance, failure, or external factor, the MRM system enables the vehicle to handle the situation autonomously.
- This system ensures safety by moving the vehicle to a secure position, such as off the road shoulder, in case of unexpected events.
Pineda Deom further explained that the MRM system comprises a primary brain always active and managing the vehicle under normal conditions, along with a secondary brain that takes control in case of failure, guiding the vehicle to a safe position.
Business Model
Continental’s innovative approach extends to a non-traditional business model, focusing on providing a service rather than selling components. The payment structure will be based on kilometers traveled.
- The MRM system is a complex and advanced technology involving sensors, software, and algorithms.
- Given the high cost of autonomous vehicles due to system complexity, this service-based model is expected to be successful.
- The future of autonomous driving is projected in commercial vehicle applications, eliminating the need for a driver and associated costs.
- Financial projections indicate that the autonomous driving service, rather than component sales, is a profitable venture.
By enabling periods of driver rest without vehicle stoppage, the MRM system increases machine efficiency and resource utilization. Although the initial investment in automating such vehicles is significant, it will be recouped through reduced operational costs. This perspective highlights the potential of autonomous driving technology.
Expansion Plans
The MRM system will initially be implemented in southern Texas, with potential expansion to other markets following analysis. Continental is already in discussions with prospective clients to extend this service to additional cities or countries.
Querétaro Research and Development Center
Established in Querétaro in 2018, the Continental Research and Development Center focuses on software, algorithms, testing, and mechanics. The center aims to create technologies for autonomous driving, blind-spot detection, and other areas.
