Autonomous Vehicles

Autonomous Vehicles (AVs) use advanced technologies including sensors, cameras, radar, artificial intelligence (AI), and connected systems to monitor their surroundings and support or control vehicle operation.

Levels of vehicle automation are defined internationally under the SAE International J3016 standard, which categorises autonomous driving capability across six levels — from Level 0 (no automation) through to Level 5 (full vehicle autonomy).

As intelligent mobility technologies continue to evolve, ACRISS has developed new vehicle coding standards specifically designed to support Autonomous Vehicles (AVs) within the ACRISS Car Classification System.

These new standards focus on AV Levels 3 to 5, covering:

  • Level 3 — Conditional Automation
    The vehicle can manage most driving tasks under certain conditions, although driver intervention may still be required.
  • Level 4 — High Automation
    The vehicle can operate autonomously within defined environments or conditions with minimal human input.
  • Level 5 — Full Automation
    The vehicle is capable of fully autonomous operation without driver involvement.

Building on the globally recognised ACRISS Car Classification System, these new coding standards are designed to provide clear, consistent, and future-focused classification guidance for autonomous mobility solutions.

The introduction of Autonomous Vehicle coding supports:

  • Improved transparency across booking and distribution systems
  • Accurate identification of autonomous driving capability
  • Greater consistency within future mobility platforms
  • Support for emerging intelligent transportation technologies
  • Preparation for the continued evolution of autonomous and connected mobility services

Through these developments, ACRISS continues to support innovation and help prepare the mobility industry for the future of intelligent and autonomous transportation.

Autonomous Vehicles – 6 Different levels

SAE International J3016 standard for Autonomous Vehicles

Level 0:
No Driving Automation
The driver is in complete control of the vehicle, handling all tasks such as steering, braking, and accelerating. Some electronic systems like Electronic Stability Control (ESC) or Emergency Brake Assist (AEB) may assist in specific situations, but they do not automate driving.
Level 1:
Driver Assistance
The driver is still fully responsible for driving but can be assisted by systems that support either steering or acceleration/braking, but not both simultaneously. Examples include lane keeping assist (LKA) or adaptive cruise control (ACC).
Level 2:
Partial Driving Automation
Advanced driver assistance systems can control both steering and acceleration/braking simultaneously. The driver must still monitor the driving environment and be ready to take control at any time. An example is the combination of LKA and ACC.
Level 3:
Conditional Driving Automation
The vehicle can manage most driving tasks, but the driver must be available to take over when the system requests. The system handles all aspects of driving in certain conditions, such as highway driving.
Level 4:
High Driving Automation
The vehicle can perform all driving tasks and monitor the environment in specific conditions or areas. Human intervention is not required in these conditions, but the driver can take control if desired.
Level 5:
Full Driving Automation
The vehicle is fully autonomous and can handle all driving tasks in all conditions without any human intervention. There is no need for a steering wheel or pedals.
ACRISS Transmission/Drive coding
TRANSMISSION / DRIVE
M Manual Unspecified Drive
N Manual 4WD
C Manual AWD
A Auto Unspecified Drive
B Auto 4WD
D Auto AWD
Q Level 3 Conditional Automation
H Level 4 High Automation
F Level 5 Full Automation
Terminology
  • Self-driving cars
  • Driverless cars
  • Robo-cars
  • Automated Vehicles
  • AI Vehicles