The car that can save cyclists' skin

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The system comprises a radar scanner in the grille, a camera fitted in front of the rear-view mirror, and an onboard computer.

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Volvo has launched a revolutionary safety device that scans for cyclists and automatically brakes if a collision is imminent.

The Swedish car firm says the camera and radar-guided technology, which is being introduced into cars from May, could save hundreds of lives.

The system comprises a radar scanner in the grille, a camera fitted in front of the rear-view mirror, and an onboard computer. It allows the car to identify cyclists who swerve into its path and reacts by slamming on the brakes.

The radar measures the distance to any suspicious object while the camera compares its shape and size against a catalogue of thousands of images – including bicycles and cyclists. It can even differentiate between a cyclist and a motorcyclist.

Volvo spokesman Duncan Forrester said: “The high-resolution camera makes it possible to spot the moving pattern of pedestrians and cyclists.

“The radar scans the area in front of the car. Once it has detected an object, the camera confirms that it is a vehicle, a bicycle or a pedestrian and it ‘keeps an eye’ on the object.

“If the situation becomes critical and in collision-course with the object, a red warning light flashes in the windscreen and the car activates full braking power.”

The system was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in Switzerland yesterday. -Daily Mail