[Quietcars] Volvo pedestrian avoidance

[Robert Wilson]

I spotted this bit of automotive news:

". . .
Volvo's longstanding
reputation for safety is being enhanced yet again on the S60 Concept.
Debuting on the concept and arriving in production cars later this
year, Volvo's new Collision Warning with Full Auto Brake system will
actively try to avoid collisions with other cars and pedestrians if the
driver does not respond to audio and visual warnings. A radar unit
behind the grille and a camera behind the rearview mirror work together
to recognize the movement patterns of a pedestrian straying out in
front of the vehicle and give audio warnings and display a red light on
the heads-up display meant to look like a brake light. If the driver
fails to react, the car will apply full brakes to minimize the
collision, reducing the collision force by as much as 75%. If the car
is traveling less than 12 mph, the system can avoid the collision
entirely. In the event that the driver is about to rear-end another car
rather than hit a pedestrian, the system can react in the same manner.
If the speed difference between the cars is less than 15 mph, the
system can avoid a collision altogether.
. . ."

Obviously addressing pedestrian safety, it is part of the adaptive cruise control that allows cars to follow and automatically maintain a safe distance. But this technology also works to avoid pedestrians and other road hazards. This is a 'win-win' solution because it provides something for everyone.

Drivers see a reduction in their driving work load and improved highway fuel economy. Safety at highway speeds is improved by safer following distances and automatic reaction to changing conditions. Finally, all pedestrians, blind and sighted, are detected with automatic vehicle braking to prevent death and injury.

For those traveling to friends and family and also those who will be staying home over Christmas and New Years, safe journey and happy holidays.

Bob Wilson

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