Growing Emergence of Park Assist Technology

One of the main hurdles to getting a driving license is learning to park. Being hit while parked and parking lot accidents account for almost one-fifth of all accidents, a lot more than we might think. That may soon however become a thing of the past with the gradual evolution of parking assist features. These technological innovations are a welcome feature not only for novice drivers but even for expert motorists who might find backing their car into a cramped space a bit difficult. This is where backup cameras come in. It is only a matter of time before like ABS, rearview cameras become mandatory for all cars, possibly by 2018 in the United States.

It is not just about rearview cameras any more. Surroundview cameras which offer multiple angles and even a seamless top-down view of the car are the next best thing in automotive safety. A good Surroundview system will not only aid you with parking but can also be crucial for preventing backover deaths. There have been numerous instances when kids have run out suddenly into a road or close to a car and a motorist has been caught unawares. Such needless deaths that cut promising lives short could be avoided with proper use of this technology. The most advanced camera systems that are now available offer a view that is similar to one that would be available if there is a plane hovering over the vehicle.

Nissan and Infiniti are pioneers in this technology. The Around View Monitor on the 2007 Infiniti EX35 as well as the Nissan Rogue SUV uses images captured through four cameras – one in the middle of the front grille, two ultra-wide-angle cameras positioned alongside the side mirrors and one above the license plate to create a composite image giving a top down view with the vehicle in the middle. If the car is centered in the image, then the parking is correct. This image is seen on an LCD display and clearly depicts neighboring cars, parking lot markings and the kerbs. This will help to minimize damage to fenders and alloy wheels by allowing motorists to park with care.