While you wait for self-driving cars to chauffeur you around, you might be delivered your rental car by remote control

Elmo Rent, which specializes in electric car sharing, has unveiled a highly innovative concept with a car that can be remotely controlled over a long distance, thanks in particular to 4G. In fact, the startup hopes to be able to one day provide a fleet of driverless cars, controlled remotely by real drivers thanks to electrical signals and the use of six on-board cameras, three in the front, one in the back and two on the side mirrors. The remote drivers will have a dedicated control station, equipped with a steering wheel and pedals as well as a screen with cameras, to take control of the vehicle from a distance.

With this unique new technology, Elmo intends to revolutionize short-term, electric vehicle rental services. The idea is that the user can order a car that will be delivered directly to the address indicated using this remote control technology. They will then be able to take control of the car.

For the moment, this is only a demonstration, as legislation prohibits this type of vehicle from being driven on public roads. However, such a service could be used for a whole slew of possibilities in restricted spaces such as military bases or parks for example. It also represents a technology showcase for Estonia.

Currently, Elmo’s fleet of vehicles in Estonia is mainly composed of Nissan Leafs and Renault Zoes. The operator, currently present at the Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) Congress in Toulouse, France, plans to put some 20 remotely controlled cars into service in the streets of Tallinn, Estonia by June. By the end of the year, it also hopes to establish itself in several European countries, notably France and Germany.

Check out Elmo’s technology in a video: youtu.be/b2qO8jphoX0