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Lexus can now see you coming

By Matt Brogan |

New technology introduced by Lexus which detects three-dimensional objects in the path of the vehicle, dubbed Active Pedestrian Detection System (APDS).

Using stereo cameras and infra-red technology that enhances night-time operation and detects and monitors objects that move in front of the car.

Designed to aid drivers where visibility is low or when drivers become distracted from what’s ahead. On detection of an object the driver is alerted to an object or pedestrian via a warning light and an audio buzzer.

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When the car moves closer to the object, APDS begins to apply the brakes and decrease steering ratio which amplifies the intensity and quickness of steering response.

The seatbelts automatically pre-tension and the brake system is ready to respond when required by the driver, anticipating an impact.

“Lexus currently offers APDS in the United States and we are studying the introduction of the safety feature for the Australian market,” said Mr Roca.

“Lexus has always been a technology leader and APDS just confirms our commitment to safety and technology.

“Over the past 20 years Lexus has forged its own technology path, introducing advanced technologies such as Hybrid Synergy Drive that have led the way for other manufacturers.”


 
  • Alex

    Wow, that sounds really annoying. Makes a buzzing sound when it detects something in front of the car and then brakes as you get closer? I wouldn’t want it. I’d much rather just have the infra-red camera like BMW and Mercedes have.
    I think this is too safe for it’s own good. After all, what are headlights and good old fashioned eyes meant for if not seeing things in front of you?

    • Peter

      It doesnt take long to get distracted – changing CD’s (remember those?),texting/talking on phones, makeup for the ladies and some others, even checking sat nav, or sneezing, smacking the brats in the back. I agree that this type of tech shouldnt be necessary, but it probably is.

      Volvo are getting something in the 2010 S60 which should be interesting, and workable. For me, I’d rather pay someone to sit in the passenger seat full time and scream at me if something popped up, than to drive a car as ugly as that lexus.

  • Tim

    One day all of this auto breaking, auto detecting technology crap is going to take someone’s life. You can not replace the human touch or sight, and piles of technology only confuse the driver.

    Good on Lexus, but it is not necessary.

  • Valet Dabess

    that’s cool but i hope they make a on/off button for it because idk about everyone else but i occasionally hit rubbish bins (on purpose) :P i’m serious too.

  • Tom21

    I have about as much confidence in this as i do in Lexus’ not too runaway on the freeway

  • EX HSV

    christ ….what an ugly car!! looks like a aurion\camry and just as boring for twice or whatever the money. typical toyota bland boring ugly……..looks like something out of the 70′s……except worse

  • The Real Car Fanatic

    I agree, it’s far from the best looking car, but no need to exaggerate! From the 70′s? I don’t recall anything from the 70′s looking like that!

    This would be frustrating and I’m sure there is an on/off switch. Well one would hope.

  • Safety First

    All of these “safety enhancements” where the car decides for itself are simply prone to making the average “Non Enthusiast” driver even more dangerous…
    It has (and I can’t remember the study right now though) been shown in several studies that if you give someone a vehicle and tell them how good the safety equipment is on it then they are more likely to relly on the vehicle than their own judgement. The study gave the test group two cars, one with and one without safety enhancements and when driving the one without the drivers were more alert to conditions around them….