BAE systems unveils wildcat robotic vehicle in Oxford
A multi million pound driverless vehicle called 'Wildcat' is set to be unveiled in the city of Oxford today, as part of a research partnership between BAE Systems and Oxford University.
The Wildcat has been the subject of over five years of research and development by scientists at BAE and will now be handed over to the university to continue research into vehicle autonomy, robotics and how improvements can be made to safety on the roads.
James Baker, managing director of BAE, said: "It's great for us to be able to offer this technology as a test bed for the university and we look forward to seeing the results over the coming years."
The vehicle is a 4x4 offroad production car from Bowler, and has been modified by BAE's engineers. It is equipped with computer controlled steering servos, an extra braking system and a hotline into the vehicle's engine management system for speed control. Wireless data links, GPS and laser ranging sensors were installed so that the Wildcat could receive instructions, navigate and avoid hitting obstacles.
