Volvo Trucks has announced measures to tackle the problem of blind spots on the passenger side, using new technology alongside public traffic education.
Working with Intersafe-2, an EU-financed project that focuses on making crossroads less dangerous, Volvo Trucks has built a system that uses laser scanners and ultrasonic sensors to monitor the blind area.
When a cyclist or pedestrian gets too close, the truck driver is alerted by flashing lights and audible warning signals.
"If you stop at a red light, the environment around you changes while your vehicle is stationary," comments Malte Ahrholdt, project manager at Volvo Technology.
"Meanwhile, the driver is focusing on something else, such as the traffic lights or looking for a suitable gap in the traffic ahead."
Although still at the development stage, Volvo is already offering similar solutions that, it says, make it easier for drivers to keep an eye on other road users.
