Volvo is working on an animal detection system to help make its
cars safer in rural areas. The new system uses the same radar
and camera technology as Volvo's Pedestrian Detection with Full
Auto Brake application, which is available on its: •XC70 • S80 A
warning sounds if an animal is detected on the road ahead, and
if the driver fails to act, the car’ brakes are applied to
either bring the vehicle to a halt or slow it down
significantly. Volvo says that, in Sweden alone, more than
40,000 accidents involving wild animals are reported every year.
Most collisions with animals happen at dawn, dusk, or during
dark winter months, so the new system is being developed with
full functionality in these conditions. Volvo’ engineers also
plan to 'teach' the system to recognise different animals. As
part of the process, a team spent time at a safari park
recording film sequences and the behavioural patterns of moose
and deer. This is to help ensure the system responds to large
animals – such as horses and deer – that pos