AI in Vehicles

New AI technology in cars is set to enhance driver safety by employing cameras on the steering wheel and rear-view mirror that scan the cabin. These cameras can detect whether the driver is paying attention, on the phone, or wearing a seatbelt. They will be required in new cars in Europe starting next year. Seeing Machines, a leading company in this field, showcased how these cameras can identify age, gender, and weight, informing how an airbag deploys and alerting emergency services post-crash. The technology also monitors driver emotions and may eventually track rear-seat passengers’ safety. Although there’s potential to monetize these features, privacy concerns are prevalent as cars could become surveillance units. Regulatory bodies are considering how to implement these features, balancing enhanced safety with privacy implications.