Mercedes-Benz has already developed the sensor systems and actual protective components of the PRE-SAFE system to the stage that they can be subjected to practical vehicle trials. An important principle applies here: these innovative systems must not impair the driveability of the car. If the accident can be avoided at the very last moment they must reset themselves to their original status.
LONG-TERM OBJECTIVE: ACCIDENT-FREE DRIVING WITH "THINKING"SYSTEMS
Mercedes-Benz has set its safety objectives even higher for the long-term future. There are plans for a "thinking"car that is able to recognise its surroundings. This means not only recognising the road ahead or other vehicles, but also traffic lights, road signs and pedestrians. In addition the cars of the future will be able to interpret traffic scenarios and if necessary initiate accident prevention measures by themselves. This is how automobile researchers gradually intend to approach their long-term objective: almost completely accident-free motoring.
