Experienced motorists make driving look easy, but they’re actually susceptible to health factors that can turn an otherwise mundane trip into a potential disaster. Mitsubishi Motors' sister company Mitsubishi Electric Corporation wants to help make cars that look out for their drivers with the EMIRAI xS Drive Concept.
It looks like a driving simulator at first glance
What looks like a prototype cockpit comprising four seats and a dashboard will debut in physical form at the upcoming 2022 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), taking place in Las Vegas from January 5 to 8. The system will showcase biometric technology to watch out for driver fatigue or illness, giving a peek into the future of driver monitoring systems.
An onboard near-infrared camera check’s the driver’s facial expressions and other body information such as pulse rates for signs of drowsiness or sudden sickness. The face-tracking and image-processing technology can identify slight changes in skin tone due to erratic heartbeats, even with changes in ambient lighting.
The system can detect if the driver is in a less than ideal physical condition behind the wheel
The physical conditions monitored are compared against a set benchmark, and when the system detects that these are below standard, it will suggest that the driver stop and rest. If the driver is unresponsive, an automated emergency-parking function will be engaged to prevent a potential accident.
Other occupants can also be seen, with the interior camera capable of accurately determining a passenger’s body size through the position of the face and skeletal points of the upper body. An onboard sensor emits radio waves that are processed to detect the presence of children in the camera’s blind spots, such as when they’re hidden behind a footwell. This allows the system to notify adult occupants if a child is accidentally left behind inside the vehicle.
Three-dimensional projections warn users of potential accidents whether in front or at the back
The EMIRAI xS Drive also handles outward safety, using a High-Definition Locator (HDL) and Driver Monitoring System to make the headlights adapt to curves, slopes, and the driver’s direction of view. Exterior cameras and millimeter-wave radar produce three-dimensional sound and road projections that help warn drivers of potential hazards both in front and at the rear.
A similar system is set to be introduced by Mazda as part of its Co-Pilot suite of driver-assist features, aimed primarily at older drivers who are at risk of falling unconscious due to strokes or heart attacks. The carmaker is also conducting research into ways that health issues can be detected preemptively by monitoring swaying heads, unfocused eyes, and erratic driving styles.
Learn more about how automakers are building safer cars at Philkotse.com.
Know more about Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi Philippines offers five passenger cars and one light commercial vehicle model for the local market.
The most affordable Mitsubishi model locally is the Mirage hatchback, which starts at Php 769,000. For SUVs, the marque has the Montero Sport. There's also the Outlander PHEV crossover, the Xpander and Xpander cross for MPVs, the Mirage G4 sedan, the Triton pickup truck, and the L300 light commercial vehicle.
At Philkotse, we provide the most up-to-date Mitsubishi Price list, as well as the latest and hottest car promos ranging from low monthly amotrizations, cash discounts, and low downpayments.
For more information about the Mitsubishi Philippines price list 2023, as well other details regarding the brand, continue below.
