Maharashtra to introduce AI-based driving tests

The tracks will be designed for testing three vehicle classes: 2-wheelers, LMVs and MHCVs.

The Maharashtra Motor Vehicle Transport Department plans to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) based driving tests with an aim to scientifically evaluate the safe driving skills of the applicants, promote proper driver training, enhance awareness of traffic rules and reduce waiting times for driving license issuance.

The transport department will set up Automated Driving Test Tracks at 17 locations in the state. These include Mumbai Central, Badnera (Amravati), Buldhana, Nagpur City, Nagpur Rural, Nagpur East, Nanded, Ahmednagar, Alandi-Pune, Aurangabad, Hadapsar-Pune, Jalgaon, Saswad-Pune, Kolhapur, Nandivali Thane, Panvel, and Pen.

According to a senior official, 7 out of the 24 test assessment parameters checked before issuing driving licenses will be automated. The tracks will be designed for testing three vehicle classes: 2-wheelers, LMVs and MHCVs; and will include a figure-of-eight track, H-tracks, traffic signal tests, zebra crossing tests, zig-zag turns, gradient tests and serpentine tracks.

The tracks will be equipped with AI software to ensure minimal human intervention. Applicant identification through facial recognition will be incorporated into the system. It will also be able to simulate real-life scenarios and will generate driving test results for each type of track in real time.

Source: Mid Day