This paper comprehensively explores autonomous vehicle (AV) technology, a transformative field gaining traction amid rapid urbanization, environmental pressures, rising accident rates, and the global pursuit of intelligent mobility systems. With increasing demand for safer and more efficient transport solutions, AVs are being positioned as a cornerstone in the future of smart city development. The paper begins by introducing the research background and objectives, then outlines the definition, historical evolution, and SAE classification of AVs. The review identifies several persistent challenges that hinder widespread implementation. Key technical barriers include limited sensor performance under adverse weather conditions, insufficient computational efficiency for real-time processing, and the lack of interpretability in AI-based decision-making systems. Ethically, unresolved issues arise in accident scenario responses and liability determination, while regulatory ambiguity and public skepticism further complicate deployment. Looking forward, the study explores future directions involving quantum computing, 5G-based communication infrastructure, and integrated vehicle-road-cloud architectures. It emphasizes the need for multi-stakeholder collaborationspanning industry, academia, and governanceto address technological, ethical, and societal gaps. By synthesizing the current progress, core barriers, and emerging opportunities, this paper helps people gain a more comprehensive understanding of autonomous driving technology and provides guidance for future interdisciplinary research and policy development.
Zhuoxuan Song (Tue,) studied this question.