The driver would be able to see the ground underneath. Image Credit: YouTube / Land Rover
The manufacturer has unveiled its concept for a car with a bonnet that the driver can see through.
The augmented reality mechanism works by using live cameras that overlay an image of the terrain underneath on to the front of the car.
Known as the 'Transparent Bonnet', the technology is still in its prototype stages but could in the future provide drivers with an unparalleled view of the road in front and below them.
Four-wheel drive vehicles could particularly benefit from this as it would help the driver navigate uneven and dangerous terrain. A concept video released by the company shows how it can be used to help the driver see what's happening while driving over steep bumps.
"We are developing new technologies including the Transparent Bonnet to give drivers an augmented view of reality to help them tackle anything from the toughest off-road route to the tight confines of an urban car park," Dr Wolfgang Epple of the Land Rover research and technology department said in a statement.
This will be mostly a toy for the people who want it. If you were able to see a pothole or other road hazard before you hit it, you'd avoid it. Once you're close enough to see it with this gadget, it's too late! I can see people getting in accidents or in this case wrecks as it will be not accident because tey were watching what's under the vehicle instead of what's in front of it.
This is great for off-road driving as you'd be able to see exactly where teh front wheels are moving over the rough terrain. I'm sure it isn't tuned on full time
I like the concept. Very cool and potentially useful. The concerns(which I did not think of) raised by some of the above commentors will need to be addressed.
They are pretty smart folks, though and I am sure they are taking all these things into consideration. I would think reessed cameras behind bulletproof glass with some kind of cleaning system would be a starting point.
AH-HA, I knew it! The bulletproof glass/window washer fluid lobbyists are behind this! Dang, you got me. You'd have to have gallons of fluid flushing continuously and I own stock!!!!
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