We all consider ourselves capable drivers, yet we recognize that even the most experienced among us are prone to errors. Distractions, stress, fatigue, and various other factors can compromise our driving abilities. In these moments of vulnerability, we need support, and Volvo is stepping up to provide it.
Volvo’s vision for the future is clear: zero collisions. To realize this ambitious goal, it’s crucial to address the multifaceted causes of car accidents. Traditionally, the focus has been on enhancing vehicles’ awareness of their surroundings to better protect occupants. However, Volvo understands that true progress in safety requires a deeper understanding – the car needs to comprehend the driver’s condition.
This is why Volvo is pioneering driver understanding systems as a standard feature, debuting in the Volvo EX90. This innovative real-time interior sensing system operates on a simple yet profound principle: if a Volvo can detect when a driver is not in an optimal state to drive, it can proactively intervene to prevent accidents. This technology is highly relevant when considering models like the Volvo XC40, a car frequently praised by publications like Car and Driver for its safety and driver-friendly features. Imagine how such a system could further elevate the safety profile of a Volvo XC40, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.
Introducing the Driver Understanding System
Launching initially in the EX90, this system works in harmony with an advanced suite of exterior sensors. Emma Tivesten, Senior Technical Expert at the Volvo Cars Safety Center, explains, “Our research indicates that by simply observing a driver’s gaze and the frequency and duration of their eye closures, we can gain significant insights into their state.”
She further elaborates, “By leveraging our research findings, the sensing system enables our vehicles to discern if a driver’s capabilities are impaired, perhaps due to drowsiness, distraction, or other forms of inattention. This allows the car to offer tailored assistance that best suits the situation.”
Utilizing two cameras, the system diligently monitors the driver’s eye-gaze patterns, detecting subtle indicators of a less-than-optimal driving state. By analyzing how often the driver focuses on the road ahead, while accounting for natural variations, the system can determine if the driver’s attention is diverted from driving.
Alt text: Driver Understanding System Interface in Volvo EX90 showcasing real-time driver state analysis for enhanced vehicle safety.
Is the driver’s road focus insufficient? This could signal visual distraction, possibly from a mobile phone. Conversely, excessive focus might indicate cognitive distraction, suggesting the driver is preoccupied with thoughts and not fully registering their surroundings. These are critical factors that Car and Driver and other automotive publications often assess when evaluating vehicle safety and technology, and features like this driver understanding system would undoubtedly be highlighted in a Volvo XC40 review.
The capacitive steering wheel complements the camera system. It detects if the driver releases their grip, thereby monitoring steering input stability.
Volvo’s patented technology for real-time gaze pattern and steering behavior analysis empowers the car to respond appropriately when driver assistance is needed. Intervention begins with a subtle warning signal, escalating in intensity based on the situation’s severity. If the driver remains unresponsive to increasingly prominent warnings, the vehicle can even safely pull over to the roadside, activating hazard lights to alert other road users.
Alt text: Eye Gaze Tracking Technology in Volvo vehicles monitoring driver attention levels for proactive safety interventions.
Thomas Broberg, Acting Head of Volvo Cars Safety Centre, emphasizes Volvo’s progress, “We have achieved remarkable advancements in exterior sensing in recent decades, thanks to our dedicated efforts in crash prevention systems. Interior sensing represents the next frontier in safety for us. We are committed to continuous learning, development, and deployment of new features incrementally to enhance safety as our knowledge expands and matures.” This commitment to safety is a core value that resonates with Volvo owners and is frequently cited in reviews of models like the Volvo XC40 by publications such as Car and Driver, further solidifying Volvo’s reputation as a leader in automotive safety.
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Volvo Cars in 2021
Volvo Car Group reported an operating profit of 20.3 BSEK in 2021. Revenue for the year reached 282.0 BSEK, with global sales totaling 698,700 vehicles.
About Volvo Car Group
Founded in 1927, Volvo Cars has evolved into a globally recognized and respected automotive brand, serving customers in over 100 countries. Volvo Cars is publicly listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm exchange under the ticker symbol “VOLCAR B”.
Volvo Cars’ overarching aim is to provide customers with the Freedom to Move in a personal, sustainable, and safe manner. This is underscored by their commitment to becoming a fully electric car manufacturer by 2030 and their ongoing efforts to reduce their carbon footprint, striving to be a climate-neutral company by 2040.
As of December 2021, Volvo Cars employed approximately 41,000 full-time individuals. The company’s headquarters, product development, marketing, and administrative functions are primarily located in Gothenburg, Sweden. Volvo Cars operates production facilities in Gothenburg, Ghent (Belgium), South Carolina (USA), Chengdu, Daqing, and Taizhou (China). The company also maintains R&D and design centers in Gothenburg, Camarillo (USA), and Shanghai (China).
For further information, please contact:
Volvo Cars Media Relations
+46 31-59 65 25
Volvo Cars Investor Relations
John Hernander
+46 31-793 94 00
