Honda has already announced plans to introduce autonomous vehicles with highly-automated freeway driving capability (SAE Level 3) by 2020 and now Honda hopes to have the next level, Level 4 available by 2025.

Honda will have Level 3 technology available by 2020

Honda level 4 autonomous driving technology, Honda, Honda level 3 autonomous driving technology, Honda autonomous, autonomous technology, self-driving cars

The SAE defines automated driving based on six levels of capability, from zero to five. Level 4 autonomous driving capability means that a vehicle can travel fully automated in most driving conditions, with the exception being during inclement weather conditions or unusual driving environments, where the driver would be required to resume control. Honda says that the new highly-automated driving systems in 2025 will help Honda get closer to its contribution to a collision-free society.

Related: Honda auctions off the first 2017 Civic Type R on Bring a Trailer

“We will strive to achieve the technological establishment of Level 4 automated driving for personal car use by around 2025,” said Honda Motor Co., Ltd. President & CEO Takahiro Hachigo. “We are striving to provide our customers with a sense of confidence and trust by offering automated driving that will keep vehicles away from any dangerous situation and that will not make people around the vehicle feel unsafe.”

Honda level 4 autonomous driving technology, Honda, Honda level 3 autonomous driving technology, Honda autonomous, autonomous technology, self-driving cars

Honda made the announcement about the Level 4 technology at a media briefing held at Honda R&D Co., Ltd. in Japan, where media were able to test drive Honda’s automated vehicle technologies in several driving scenarios, including systems with advanced artificial intelligence, a simulated freeway driving demonstration and a more urban-like environment.

Source: Honda