Johannesburg - The intricate inner workings of factory-fitted safety systems such as lane departure and forward collision warnings found in expensive luxury vehicles, can now be had in any car courtesy of an aftermarket device developed by the same company which provides the technology to the car manufacturers.
The new Mobileye collision avoidance system features a discreet windscreen-mounted camera and small dash-top display screen, which wire into your car’s electronics and can alert drivers to dangerous traffic situations much like the factory-fitted options used in high-end cars such as BMW, Mercedes and Volvo. Just like in those cars, the Mobileye smart camera positioned behind your car’s rear view mirror can keep an eye on the road when a driver becomes distracted, and emit a series of visual and audible alerts to help prevent crashes.
The system can detect a slower moving vehicle in your lane, recognise speed limit signs, see wayward pedestrians and cyclists, and sense if you wander over a painted line; all before the EyeWatch display (about the size of a large wrist watch) turns red and sounds a loud buzzer. Other optional features include automatic high-beam headlight dipping, and a steering wheel vibration device that can be fitted in compatible vehicles.
SMARTPHONE APP
An extra smartphone app can connect to the system via Bluetooth to offer a second display screen, access various settings and also allow drivers (or vehicle owners) to assess past warnings after a journey.
Mobileye’s South African importer, A.I. Vision, says fitment can be done easily by approved installers without intrusive wire snipping and without voiding factory warranties. The device is aimed primarily at fleet operators but can be bought by any safety-conscious vehicle owner including parents who want to supplement the safety systems in the often entry-level cars of learner drivers.
We sampled the Mobileye system fitted to an older generation Volvo sedan, and it performed much the same as what we’ve seen from modern built-in safety features. Other than the aftermarket look of the EyeWatch display situated on top of, rather than inside the dashboard cluster, the device functions unobtrusively and as long as you drive attentively it’s hardly noticeable.
Mobileye is priced around R14 000 (depending on fitment and options), but bulk deals and finance options are also available. A.I. Vision is currently working with various insurance companies, but has already secured a deal with Discovery to offer a 10 percent discount on monthly insurance premiums.
For more information visit www.aivision.co.za or call Dave Carless on 011-402-3483 or 083-645-0965.
Star Motoring