Mazda develops new safety tech
- Alisdair Suttie
The Mazda ASV-4 is able to tell its driver if there is a danger from oncoming cars at intersections even if the driver cannot see around the corner.
Using a communications system that links cars to each other, the ASV-4 (Advanced Safety Vehicle) is designed to help cars lessen the severity of accidents or avoid them altogether.
Mazda has already begun trials of the ASV-4 system and expects to conduct on-road tests before the end of 2009.
The trials will include a rear impact detection system that can work all the way up to motorway speeds.
It will also test Mazda's Precrash Safety System that scans the road ahead for oncoming vehicles to warn the driver and even apply the brakes automatically.
The ASV-4 car will be tested alongside Mazda's Intelligent Transport System, which allows cars to 'talk' to each other to avoid congestion.