2026, Vol. 7, Issue 1, Part A

Autonomous vehicles (AVs) represent a ground breaking advancement in the transportation industry, driven by the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. AI enables vehicles to operate autonomously, utilizing sensors, machine learning, and sophisticated algorithms to navigate complex environments. The rapid evolution of AI in AVs holds the potential to revolutionize road safety, alleviate traffic congestion, and enhance mobility, particularly for individuals with disabilities. However, the deployment of AI-powered AVs introduces several challenges, including technological limitations, regulatory obstacles, and societal acceptance.

Technologically, AVs rely on real-time data from sensors such as LiDAR, radar, and cameras to make critical driving decisions. Despite significant advancements, these systems still encounter difficulties in handling unpredictable scenarios, such as adverse weather conditions or rare road events. Moreover, ethical dilemmas associated with decision-making algorithms pose a challenge, as AVs are programmed to make life-and-death decisions in certain circumstances.

Regulatory frameworks present another barrier, as existing traffic laws were not designed with autonomous driving in mind. This necessitates new legislation and collaboration between automakers, policymakers, and regulators to ensure that safety standards are met. Additionally, public trust in AI-powered systems remains a considerable hurdle, with concerns regarding privacy, security, and potential job displacement.

This paper provides a comprehensive review of the current state of AI in autonomous vehicles, highlighting the key challenges and proposing future directions to address these issues. As AV technology continues to evolve, overcoming these challenges is essential for realizing its full potential.