The automotive company has indicated that future iterations of its BMW cruise control will have the ability to read traffic lights. As the vehicle approaches the light, the system will be able to determine if it should stop or go.
The new BMW cruise control does not reference data from the lights to determine its actions. Instead, the system implements two cameras on the front of the vehicle. The cameras will be able to read almost all traffic lights because the hight and exact position of traffic lights have been globally standardized. In challenging intersections, the system is able to make use of map data to hone in on the car's position. Following that the system can determine which traffic signal it should follow. BMW has not indicated when the system will be available.
Traffic-Signal Reading Cars
The New BMW Cruise Control Will Be Able to Read Traffic Lights
Trend Themes
1. Traffic-signal Reading Cars - More automotive companies will create cars equipped with technology that can read traffic signals, improving road safety and reducing congestion.
2. Camera-based Traffic Light Detection - Innovative camera-based systems, like those used in the new BMW cruise control, will become more prevalent as car manufacturers aim to create self-driving cars.
3. Integration of Map Data - As map data becomes increasingly precise, more companies will integrate it into their traffic signal reading systems to improve functionality and enable smoother traffic flow.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive - Automotive companies will lead the charge in developing and implementing traffic signal reading technology in vehicles.
2. Information Technology - IT companies will develop the software and algorithms that make traffic signal reading possible, driving innovation in this area.
3. Smart City - Smart city initiatives will incorporate traffic signal reading technology into their infrastructure, improving traffic flow and reducing congestion in urban areas.