"Smart Intersection" and the Future of Vehicle Safety

Ford Has A Vision For What's Next 

Imagine cars talking to traffic lights AND each other.  It may sound like a sci-fi movie but if executed properly, could drastically cut down on traffic accidents.  Ford is now working on the "smart intersection" at their Research and Development centers.  

The smart intersection communicates with specially-equipped test vehicles to warn drivers of potentially dangerous traffic situations, such as when a vehicle is about to run through a red light.

The intersection is outfitted with technology that can monitor traffic signal status, GPS data and digital maps to assess potential hazards, and then transmit the information to vehicles.

Once the information is received, the vehicle’s collision avoidance system may be able to determine whether the car will safely cross the intersection or if it needs to stop before reaching it.

If the system determines the need to stop and senses that the driver is not decelerating quickly enough, it issues visual and audio warnings to the driver, essentially giving the driver a crucial ‘third eye’ when it comes to spotting dangers at a crossroads.

Oddly enough, Ford's innovation will require them to work with their competition.  

"It’s critical for Ford to work closely with other automakers, suppliers and governments to agree on standard communication protocols and message sets. At Ford, we would like a system for connected vehicles that works in a similar manner globally,” said Christian Ress, technical expert connectivity, Ford Research & Advanced Engineering Europe.

Crazy huh?  Until this gets closer, stop by West Herr Ford in Hamburg or Amherst to see what the historic automaker has to offer.