Mercedes 2001 Annual Report Download - page 27

The “Vision of Accident-free Driving” 23
Distronic, a comfort system, also eases the burden
on the driver. A radar sensor located in the radiator
grille measures the distance to the vehicle in front.
The sensor can observe the traffic scenario up to 150
meters (almost 500 feet) ahead. If the car approaches a
recognized vehicle in front too closely, Distronic can
automatically disengage the accelerator and – if
necessary – gently apply the brakes.
Drifting from a traffic lane on motorways is a
major cause of accidents, especially when trucks and
buses are involved. The Lane-departure Warner can alert
the driver to the danger of leaving a recognized lane of
traffic with a signal – the distinctive sound of a vehicle
crossing a line of marker studs on the road. The driver
then steers the vehicle back on course. The vehicle’s
position is analyzed by a high-powered computer on
the basis of camera images and lane markings.
Our “Vision of Accident-free Driving” tomorrow. Safety
systems which are already on board of road vehicles
have helped to bring about a considerable reduction in
accidents. Even more might be prevented if drivers
were supported by additional ‘eyes.’ Future develop-
ments will therefore help enhance visibility, especially
at night and in complex traffic situations.
Many accidents occur in darkness, rain, fog and in
the dazzling light of oncoming vehicles. With the Night
Vision infrared system, the driver has a range of vision
of up to three times as long as that provided by conven-
tional low-beam headlights. Night Vision can help
drivers recognize the topography of the road, obstacles
and darkly clothed pedestrians 150 meters (almost 500
feet) away. Conventional low-beam headlights, on the
other hand, illuminate the road ahead for only 40
meters (130 feet).
Nose-to-tail collisions resulting from driver fatigue
or distraction can have devastating consequences.
Many accidents, especially those involving heavy
trucks, could be prevented by the development of intel-
ligent systems. The so-called Electronic Crumple Zone
can prevent up to 80% of rear-end collisions involving
two trucks and over 30% of all truck accidents on
motorways. This system can help brake a vehicle if it
approaches the vehicle in front too closely and the
driver fails to react.
More efficient road utilization, a 15% reduction in
fuel consumption and improved working conditions in
the truck cockpit are provided by the Electronic Draw-
bar. This means greater safety for other road users as
well. With this system, two trucks are coupled by elec-
tronic means: The leading vehicle is driven as usual,
while the second truck automatically follows it without
a mechanical connection. Either vehicle can terminate
the link at any time.
Proven in the test car: In critical
situations a driver can react faster
with sidesticks than with
accelerator and brake pedal.
We are driven by visions
of the future