Safety

Aftermarket brings connected vehicles to market sooner The future of automotive connectivity, which entails the further integration of automotive and consumer electronics as well as vehicle infrastructure integration, was discussed at a Driving Connected technology briefing seminar at the 2009 SEMA Show. Paramount for that integration to occur is open architectures. Read full story

Sound EV safety solutions from Lotus and Harman For decades, OEMs and their major suppliers have been striving to reduce the external and internal noise levels of vehicles. But with the advent of electric propulsion, that need is being inverted in the name of safety. Read full story

Consortium promotes new airbag standard Standardization is gaining acceptance in automotive electronics, though automakers often opt for a range of specifications for similar applications. As the number of airbags increases, three suppliers are banding together to promote a standard connection. Read full story

Integrated camera and digital map data helps drivers see more Alpine has developed a multiple camera system to improve visibility around a vehicle, which is additionally linked to a navigation database to add further functionality. Although the first prototypes have been developed using passenger cars, the company believes the technology has far greater potential applied to commercial vehicles and buses. Read full story