Japan Becomes First Country to Approve Mirrorless Cars

One of the main criteria for assessing the performance of a novice driver during a driving test is whether he pays adequate attention to safety by checking the mirrors on a regular basis. Generally, it is important to have a good view of the area around the car to drive safely and the bigger the mirrors, the better it is for the driver. However, these mirrors have a significant effect on the fuel economy of the car as they affect the aerodynamics and are literally a drag on the car. They are also highly susceptible to damage. For many new models, automakers have begun to use video cameras as a more stylish and efficient alternative to mirrors. In view of the advancements that have been made in video technology, Japan became the first country in the world to approve the use of video cameras instead of mirrors in cars. Japan, which is home to many well known automotive manufacturers including Honda, Nissan and Toyota made this move in the wake of UN’s World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations approving the use of video technology in the place of mirrors, providing certain specifications are met.

This pathbreaking decision by the Japanese government has already prompted many suppliers to capitalize on the new rules. A company called Ichikoh has already developed systems that it is going all out to sell to automakers. According to Ichikoh CEO Ali Ordoobadi, this is a new segment that involves a higher volume of content, thus offering opportunities for higher revenue. Bosch has already developed in-built video display systems for the A-pillars of commercial trucks, while Gentex Corporations has come up with a rear-view mirror that can switch to a video display for the 2016 Cadillac CT6.

When compared to mirrors, video displays offer many safety advantages as they can be placed almost anywhere on the car, and give drivers a clearer view of blind spots. They can also be programmed to allow for low light, glare and other distortions. From the efficiency perspective, they are generally lighter and more aerodynamic than external mirrors. Doing away with mirrors would make it easier for automotive manufacturers to meet more stringent emissions standards and fuel economy targets.

With Japan making the first move, it is only reasonable to assume that more countries will join the bandwagon of governments approving the use of video systems in lieu of mirrors. Countries from the EU and the United States are likely to follow suit soon and China too is likely to change its laws in the near future in view of the advancements made in video technology.