Making the Road Safer for Cyclists

The latest high-tech auto safety feature is designed not to protect a car’s passengers, but those outside the vehicle - both on foot and on two wheels. Called Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection with Full Auto Brake, the system comes from Volvo and uses a radar unit and a high-definition camera to scan the area ahead of the car on a continuous basis. The system alerts the driver should a pedestrian step into the vehicle’s path in city traffic or if a bicyclist suddenly darts out in front of the vehicle as it approaches from behind. If the motorist isn’t reacting quickly enough and the system determines a collision is imminent it will apply the brakes to help prevent or minimize injury to the pedestrian or rider. The previous version of the technology was only able to spot pedestrians. The system will be available in seven Volvo models in Europe beginning later this spring, with availability in the U.S. likely to follow at a cost that’s yet to be determined.