Five new luxury models will offer autopilot systems that let a car drive itself if it senses any danger of an accident ahead, Fortune Magazine reports. These 5 luxury models include the Audi Q7 SUV which offers twin radar sensors that alert the driver about blind spots and when changing lanes. Audi’s self Drive system costs an extra $500. Meanwhile, the Acura RL will feature collision-mitigation brakes that brakes on its own if the driver fails to respond. The high-tech brakes are expensive however, costing about $3800. The Infiniti M45, FX45 (above photo) and Q45 features a camera that reads lane markings and alerts the driver when lane straying.
Mercedes Benz offers a ‘distonic’ cruise control for $550. The German automaker claims that this new system can reduce rear-end collisions by up to 75%. General Motors Inc. is also developing a similar system. Meanwhile, DOT is planning on putting up ‘smart intersections’ complete with cameras. However, the use of in-car cameras has some legal impediments mainly because it could lead to speeding tickets and snooping. Another unresolved issue is whether the manufacturer will be liable if a crash still occurs despite deployment and use of these systems.
May 8th, 2006 at 12:08 pm
Nun ist unser Fahrgemeinschaftsauto im Autohimmel . Hilfe wir brauchen ein neues Auto. Wenn Ihr einen 8- Sitzer habt mailt an wirbraucheneinneuesauto@volksvan.de Danke
June 19th, 2006 at 6:45 pm
Whoever wrote this has no idea what they’re talking about. The Audi system has 1 radar. The Mercedes uses a single long range radar and 2 short range radars. Neither system will cost anywhere near $500. You’re looking at $2000-$3000 for any radar-based ACC system.
Car-based cameras will not lead to speeding tickets and snooping any more than having a car with a speedometer.
Finally, none of these systems will cause liability concerns as long as they don’t activate when there is nothing wrong. Much like airbags and ABS, they are there to help someone who got themselves in trouble. I like to believe that people in this country are still responsible for their actions.