Would You Let Nissan Do The Driving For You?
Nissan has been rolling out their computer-assist systems as of late. First it was the ECO-Pedal - meant to help drivers lower fuel economy by literally pushing against the driver’s foot when detecting rapid acceleration. You can choose to have the option switched on or off easily through a control button. Nissan’s theory is sound, but what happens when ECO-Pedal is activated and a sudden obstruction (animal, accident, etc.) appears on the road? Having to stop abruptly is not always the best way to avoid a collision.
When you go to accelerate around something and (hopefully) avoid collision the gas pedal will fight against you. Perhaps adding a sensor to differentiate between normal acceleration and a slam on the gas to what I like to call “escape velocity” is needed. To compensate, Nissan is also introducing a prototype for what they’ve branded an “All-Around Collision Free” sensor layout.
Two state of the art technologies are being implemented in the Collision Free System – side collision & back-up collision prevention. There will also be a distance control and a lane departure prevention system. Side collision prevention includes side-mounted sensors, which warn of approaching vehicles when the driver is going to change lanes. If a car is on your left or right the vehicle will slow or cease merging to prevent a hit. The reverse warning system works the same, also sounding an alarm. The distance indicator helps keep adequate space between vehicles while in transit, side space is kept optimal with lane departure sensors to keep your car from veering over either of the road strips.
These programs complete Nissan’s “Safety Shield” concept - protecting the vehicle and its occupants from accidents coming from all directions. Sound technologies and great concepts from Nissan, but we still have to see how each works during real life road situations. There are some events only the great computer of your mind can predict instantly. These concepts also beg the question: How long before driver intuition and human interaction are removed completely from the equation of vehicle operation?
Photos Courtesy of Nissan
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