This system is not meant to be fully autonomous, but rather one that acts “as a companion”. Toyota wants its new system to take over when it is better equipped to handle driving, and let driving be done by the driver when they’re better equipped. Ultimately, Toyota says that drivers must remain at the center of driving rather than act as passengers, because “people don’t enjoy watching machines.” Advanced Drive is designed around five characteristics: Intelligent, Reliable, Perceptive, Interactive, and Upgradeable.
In cases where danger is being predicted, whether in the surrounding environment or the driver’s condition, Advanced Drive gives a warning, allowing the driver to decide what should happen next with the system providing suggestions. “The objective is driving assist that fosters trust between driver and car through this two-way communication,” says Toyota.