This book takes a comparative and domain-specific approach to autonomous vehicles, examining how self-operating systems are conceived, engineered, and deployed across terrestrial, underwater, and aerial environments. It presents autonomy not as a single technology but as a layered capability built from perception, navigation, and control, each adapted to the constraints of a particular medium. The narrative considers how vehicles interpret surroundings through sensor fusion, maintain stability under varying physical conditions, and execute decisions with minimal human oversight. It also reflects on the differing operational demands imposed by terrain irregularities, fluid dynamics, and atmospheric conditions, showing how engineers tailor solutions for each context. Attention is given to reliability, fault tolerance, and system coordination, emphasising how robust design supports sustained autonomous performance.

The book also explores the broader shift towards intelligent mobility systems, where autonomy enhances efficiency, safety, and operational reach. It provides a contextual understanding of how these technologies are applied in fields such as exploration, monitoring, and advanced transportation, making it valuable for readers interested in the evolving landscape of autonomous engineering.