As the automotive industry continues to break the boundaries of vehicle capabilities, the cars we drive are getting smarter every day. This is especially true when talking about trends for powerful new safety features. Toyota technology is advancing at lightning speed, and its “guardian angel” system is just one example of a developing innovation that will keep drivers safer in the future. The Toyota Research Institute received a $1 billion grant last year for researchers to develop and advance autonomous driving, robotics, and artificial intelligence technologies.
Automated and Invisible
Autonomous vehicle technology, better known as self-driving cars or driverless cars, has dominated the media lately. Toyota’s “guardian angel” system takes a different slant on automated interventions. Rather than replacing drivers completely, this feature is being designed to act as a sort of virtual “co-pilot” to pay attention to what’s happening on the road and step in if necessary. The idea is to automatically help and protect drivers, not eliminate them completely. This path is a way for human beings and cars to work together to prevent dangerous collisions.
How it Works
This new “guardian angel” technology is being engineered to sense for impending hazards and intervene by either taking total control of the car or merely making a slight adjustment in order to prevent an accident. Imagine a scenario where you should have slammed on the brakes but didn’t react in time. The “guardian angel” technology would have already sensed danger and quickly taken control to apply the brakes for you in time. Afterward, this smart technology would turn control of the vehicle back over to you. Gill Pratt, CEO of the Toyota Research Institute, told the MIT Technology Review, “There is a virtual driver that is trying to make sure you don’t have an accident by temporarily taking control from you.”
Your Toyota Resource
The advancements in Toyota technology are absolutely fascinating, and they’re changing all the time. Elgin Toyota is your resource for learning about all Toyota’s latest advancements and checking things out in person. Stop by our dealership anytime, call us at 888-465-9840, or contact us today to learn more about this and other innovative Toyota technology.
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