Volvo Cars has revealed a technology that detects and automatically brakes for cyclists swerving out in front of the car.
The new functionality is an enhancement of the present detection and auto brake technology, and the package will be called ‘Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection’ with full auto brake. All cars equipped with pedestrian detection will also incorporate cyclist detection.
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“As the leader in automotive safety, we have been first in the industry with all detection and auto brake technologies, from the first-generation brake support in 2006 to pedestrian detection with full auto brake in 2010,” said Doug Speck, Senior Vice President Marketing, Sales and Customer Service at Volvo Car Group.
According to accident data, about 50% of all cyclists killed in European traffic have collided with a car.
The system’s advanced sensor and radar system scans the area ahead. If a cyclist heading in the same direction as the car suddenly swerves out in front of the car as it approaches from behind and a collision is imminent, there is an instant warning and full braking power is applied.
Volvo points out that the car’s speed has considerable importance for the outcome of an accident. A lower speed of impact means that the risk of serious injury is significantly reduced.
New advanced software, including more rapid vision processing, has made it possible to extend the present detection and auto brake technology to cover certain cyclist situations, Volvo said.
“Our solutions for avoiding collisions with unprotected road users are unique in the industry. By covering more and more objects and situations, we reinforce our world-leading position within automotive safety. We keep moving towards our long-term vision to design cars that do not crash,” said Speck.
See also: Volvo is kind to cyclists and idiots
