Indian Startup Converts Mahindra Bolero Into Self-Driving SUV, Anand Mahindra Reacts

New Delhi: Advancements in automotive technology are bringing cars closer to autonomous driving capabilities worldwide. In India, some car models already feature advanced driver assistance features like Level-2 ADAS. However, a recent breakthrough by a startup from Bhopal has captured widespread attention.

The video even earned recognition from Anand Mahindra, Chairman of Mahindra & Mahindra. (Also Read: Work From Home vs Work From Office Debate: Zerodha's Nithin Kamath On Why WFH Not A Fit For All)

Who Is Behind The Innovation?

Sanjeev Sharma, an IIT graduate, is behind the remarkable invention that has grabbed headlines. Since 2009, Sharma has been fascinated by autonomous technology, and his recent creation has turned heads. (Also Read: Yes Bank And IDFC First Bank To Impose Surcharge On Credit Card Utility Payments)

An impressive video shared online showcases a modified Bolero SUV equipped with self-driving capabilities, skillfully navigating through bustling streets without manual steering.

Technical Innovation

The Bolero SUV underwent significant modifications, featuring advanced hardware and software essential for autonomous driving.

Components such as LiDAR sensors, cameras, radar systems, and a robust central system capable of real-time decision-making were integrated into the vehicle.

The video demonstrates the SUV's smart autonomous technology adeptly maneuvering through various obstacles, including parked cars, police barricades, and pedestrian-filled areas.

Anand Mahindra's Attention

An active presence on social media, Anand Mahindra, took to his platform to commend Sharma's innovation. He expressed his enthusiasm for the rise of tech innovation in India.

Mahindra lauded Sharma's dedication to achieving level 5 autonomy through complex mathematical algorithms. He concluded with praise for the choice of vehicle.

Evidence of tech innovation rising across India.

An engineer who’s not building yet another delivery app. @sanjeevs_iitr is using complex math to target level 5 autonomy.

I’m cheering loudly. 

And certainly won’t debate his choice of car! pic.twitter.com/luyJXAkQap — anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) April 2, 2024

Social Media Reactions

The video of the self-driving Bolero SUV has garnered significant attention on social media platforms. Here are some of the comments:

I tried to convert NANO into helicopter but I failed  — Abhi (@MetaAbhishek) April 2, 2024

It is not reality this looks like kids playing with remote car. There should be some cars passing on sides and speed should be high. Yes you may say it is the beginning then that should be limited to R&D untill it shows some basic capability. Of course did someone is innovative… — Surendhran_G  (@Surendhran_G) April 2, 2024

Giving Tesla a run for its money  — Allan Pham (@AllanBytes) April 2, 2024

If this technology is implemented in India and is successful on Indian roads, then it can be implemented even on Mars and @elonmusk can forget Tesla FSD. — Vikram (@vikram_lingam) April 2, 2024