If someone asked you about what technology you expect the future to bring, what would you envision? Hoverboards? Jetpacks? Or, what about self-driving cars? As it turns out, we may have taken one step closer to that timeline. Not to mention, people in our very own hometown will help make it possible. Now that Auburn University’s new autonomous vehicle research facility exists, we excitedly await the changes it will bring.
What is an autonomous vehicle?
Before we get into Auburn University’s new autonomous vehicle research facility, we should explain what an autonomous vehicle actually is. Essentially, it is a kind of car that drives itself. Though it still needs human operations at times, it can also control a good deal of its own journey. So, it slightly differs from the cars we imagine in the future—but just barely!
More on Auburn’s New Research Facility
Vroom, vroom! At the National Center for Asphalt Technology at Auburn University, also known as the NCAT, scientists aim to lap all previous incarnations of autonomous vehicles.
Auburn University’s new autonomous vehicle research facility will provide a high-tech spot for researchers from the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering to perfect their experiments. Those working at the university’s GPS and Vehicle Dynamics Laboratory, or GAVLAB, will mainly benefit from the facility. There, they’ll create vehicles that can speed around the 1.7-mile oval test track. Notably, the facility itself does not rest on the main Auburn campus.
In the News
Though it only opened recently, Auburn’s new autonomous vehicle research facility offers a place for impressive demonstrations. Those working at the GAVLAB intend to use it to reveal their technological progress to visiting sponsors.
In the past, they have made presentations on autonomous vehicles for groups like the Federal Highway Administration and the Department of Defense. And these days, they have a brand-new test track to show their work in its best light!
Where is Auburn’s New Research Facility?
If this news has piqued your interest, you can always drive past Auburn University’s new autonomous vehicle research facility at the test track. The track sits at 1600 Lee Road 151 in Opelika, AL.
What does Auburn’s new research Facility feature?
- You already know about the test track! That’s not all the facility has to offer. It also boasts:
- A room overlooking the track, so viewers can watch the tests;
- A conference room;
- Office space; and
- An enormous garage capable of hosting passenger vehicles and commercial trucks alike.
Summary
No need to rev up your engines—soon, your car may have that covered! A fascinating future waits on the horizon. We all know who will help bring those advances: Auburn University’s new autonomous vehicle research facility. Our only question: would you try one of those unique cars, or do you prefer to helm the wheel yourself?
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