'Car for the blind' developed

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1 min read

12 July 2010

The first road-legal car that can be driven safely by the blind is being developed in America.

A group of American scientists has teamed up with the National Federation of the Blind to develop a prototype based on the Ford Escape.

Information about the road surface, obstacles and current speed is transmitted via a vibrating vest and a tactile map interface, using compressed air to alert the driver to potential hazards. An array of sensors and lasers are used to identify the road ahead and relay information accordingly.

The car also speaks to the driver directly, indicating the car’s direction.

The first test drive will take place in Florida in January and the team is keen to put the car into production later in 2011.

Freddie Fulton

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blowerbentley 13 July 2010

Re: 'Car for the blind' developed

Citytiger wrote:
I thought BMW had been making them for years..

You beat me to it. I was going to say Peugeot!

Uncle Mellow 12 July 2010

Oilburner wrote:
I hear there's already been considerable interest in this car from several FIFA referees....

Nice one.

Jon Hardcastle 12 July 2010

The Colonel wrote:

BulletTrainMcKane wrote:
Probably cheaper just to teach the dog drive.

That's a bit of a stereotype, isn't it? Just because one is blind, it does not automatically mean the girlfriend is ugly.

How ugly does she need to be before the compulsory wearing of High Vis Jacket?

Only in America!!

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'Car for the blind' developed