Volkswagen CEO Herbert Deiss held his ‘Ask Me Anything’ (AMA) on Reddit earlier today (after a delay), and the leader of the German automaker answered various questions asked by the company’s fans.
Deiss touched on a variety of subjects, including the likes of self-driving tech, over-the-air updates, and more.
Lidar Technology
When asked about Lidar technology, Diess replied, “Lidar technology is still expensive, but [today’s] the only way to offer redundant perception to the 360 camera systems which are a must. Safety is really crucial in autonomous driving. For level 3 driving you need redundant perception.”
Future of Autonomous Driving
When asked about autonomous driving, Diess replied with an answer that sounded like it would come from Tesla CEO Elon Musk.
“Autonomous driving is the biggest gamechanger for the automotive industry,” said Diess. “We will be able to drive our customers safe and comfortably. This will be a gradual process from taking over [responsibility] on open highways in good weather conditions getting to more complex [environments] and weather situations worldwide. So this will be a long process of competition for a long period to come. We are building up competencies to become a serious competitor in this race.”
Over-the-Air Updates for ID Cars
As for over-the-air updates from Volkswagen for the 2021 ID.4 in the USA, for example? Diess said, “We will have a major OTA update for the ID.4 coming this summer, which will add features like Plug&Charge and AutoHold, as well as a higher capacity onboard charge capability.”
VW Software Push
When asked about developing software in-house, Diess said VW hired roughly 1,000 software engineers last year, while intellectual property was acquired through a partnership with Bosch. Image recognition were from the Hella Aglaia team, while the automaker is investing $2 billion per year for software.
“CARIAD is already delivering the software updates over the air, preparing new launches and features together with our brands,” said Diess.
Plug and Charge Adoption
As for when VW cars will adopt the ‘Plug and Charge’ standard, Diess said, “Yes, we will offer Plug & Charge on MY23 ID.4s and on earlier cars with an OTA update. Just tested it together with Elke.”
VW Electric Pickup Truck for USA?
When asked, “will there be an electric pickup truck like the Ford F150 Lightning for the USA?”, Diess replied, “good idea!”, suggesting the Volkswagen may have some electric pickup truck plans in the making.
Bi-Directional Charging
When asked about a VW ID.4 powering a home and electric appliances? Diess replied, “Bidirectional charging will be available this year for all ID. Models with 77 kWh battery, also via OTA update. In the beginning we will only offer Vehicle-to-home.” The CEO added, “this means you can run your dishwasher with electricity from abroad.”
