Volvo Debuts Self-Parking And Autonomous Steering System

Volvo is working hard to maintain its image as a safety pioneer, this week unveiling its new valet-like parking and steering system.

And, while the experimental SARTRE 'vehicle platooning' autonomous driving technology remains just that, this new technology has been developed for a much faster production debut. 

The imaginatively named Autonomous Parking system allows owners to use their mobile phone to send their car off to park on its own - if the parking lot is equipped with the right infrastructure. 

The system uses Car 2 Car and Car 2 Object protocols, which are essentially sensors and transmitters installed in the vehicle and in parking buildings, allowing the car to 'see' and communicate with its surroundings. 

When the driver enters a parking lot with suitable systems in place, they can hop out of the car at the entrance, and leave the system to take care of the parking process. 

Volvo has also confirmed it will launch its traffic-jam autonomous system with the new 2015 XC90 SUV. Like Mercedes-Benz's Steering Assist system in the new S-Class, Volvo's technology will allow the vehicle to drive itself in slow traffic.