12.12.2006
GM develops vehicles with a sixth sense

Preventing accidents by warning drivers about potential danger from other vehicles was a major goal during the development of the new General Motors V2V (vehicle-to-vehicle) communication systems. Vehicles equipped with this technology can communicate with each other and exchange information such as location and speed. Drivers can then be warned in advance if another car is traveling in their blind spot, stopped in an area that is difficult or impossible to see, or about to enter the same intersection as they are.

“With V2V technology, we intensify the driver’s awareness of his environment to improve road safety, without any distraction to him and certainly without reducing his level of control. This sixth sense lets drivers know what’s going on around them to help avoid accidents and improve traffic flow,” said Hans-Georg Frischkorn, Executive Director, Global Electrical Systems, Controls and Software.

For these systems, GM uses proven, reliable components that are part of everyday life. The hardware consists of a microprocessor, GPS receivers (Global Positioning System) and Wireless LAN modules. The vehicles establish communication within a few hundred meters of one another and exchange information such as location, speed, acceleration and direction of travel.

GM has deliberately based this technology on inexpensive, proven components, giving it the potential to become standard equipment in many vehicles.