A Glimpse into the Future: Autonomous Cars Captivate Students in Kismaros

On November 22, the scenic town of Kismaros in the Börzsöny Hills became the backdrop for an inspiring event where the students of ELTE Radnóti Miklós High School’s physics faculty delved into the world of autonomous vehicles. The star guest of the day was Dr. Zsolt Szalay, head of the Department of Automotive Technologies at the Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME), who delivered a captivating lecture titled “The Present and Future of Autonomous Driving – Where is Mobility Heading?” For the 17-19-year-old students, it was more than just a talk—it was a journey into the technology of tomorrow.

Today’s Curious Minds, Tomorrow’s Engineers

The students, standing at the crossroads of career choices, were introduced to the exciting challenges and limitless opportunities of the world of innovation. Dr. Szalay not only highlighted the cutting-edge research conducted at his department but also unraveled the secrets of autonomous vehicles, sparking curiosity and enthusiasm among the audience.

Five Levels Transforming the World

One of the most fascinating parts of the presentation was the explanation of the five levels of autonomous driving. Where did it all begin, and where are we heading? With vivid examples and engaging visuals, Dr. Szalay illustrated the journey from basic driver assistance systems to full autonomy.

“Technology not only enhances comfort and efficiency but fundamentally redefines our concept of mobility,” he emphasized, leaving the students captivated by the possibilities of human-machine collaboration in the future.

Test Tracks and Digital Twins

The audience was also introduced to the groundbreaking research conducted at the ZalaZONE Proving Ground. How can real and virtual testing environments be combined? Why are digital twins so crucial? These questions highlighted not only the precision of engineering but also the importance of safety in the future of transportation.

Could This Be Your Path?

One of the lecture’s most powerful messages was the boundless potential in the worlds of science and technology. Dr. Szalay encouraged the students: “Be the engineers of the future!” Perhaps, for some of the young attendees, this day served as the spark that ignited their passion for innovation and set them on a lifelong career path.

More Than Just a Lecture

The students weren’t just passive listeners; they engaged actively, asking questions like: Why does it take so long to introduce autonomous technologies? How are vehicles tested? What skills are essential to becoming an engineer? These interactive discussions showcased the students’ enthusiasm and curiosity—the perfect foundation for building the future of innovation.

An Inspiring Event

Dr. Zsolt Szalay’s lecture not only motivated the students but also provided a platform to showcase the activities of the BME Department of Automotive Technologies. The event was both educational and inspiring, strengthening the collaboration between the high school and the university.

The future of mobility might still seem like a distant dream, but events like this prove that the greatest journeys begin with a single step. At the camp in Kismaros, that step was taken—perhaps in the life of a future engineer.