Toyota safety tech raises the bar -- and headrest

OYAMA, Shizuoka Pref. (AP) Cars equipped with the latest safety technology today already have collision-avoidance systems that warn drivers of oncoming cars. On Friday, Toyota announced it has developed the world's first system designed to warn drivers of possible rear-end collisions.

The automaker said in a statement that it had developed a radar device mounted in the rear bumper that can detect a vehicle approaching from behind.

In addition, sensors in the front seat headrests detect the position of the driver's and front-seat passenger's heads, and adjusts the headrests to reduce the risk of whiplash, it said. Hazard lights also warn the driver of a possible crash from behind.

Toyota Motor Corp. President Katsuaki Watanabe said a computer like "a human brain" will be installed in Lexus LS luxury cars in Japan in September. It will incorporate the automaker's latest safety features such as the rear-end collision avoidance and headrest adjustment systems.

"We are determined . . . to develop vehicles that will have zero traffic accidents," Watanabe told reporters.

Another new safety feature developed by Toyota can detect pedestrians, in addition to oncoming cars and other obstacles, it said.

The system uses a "stereo camera" that can interpret information in three dimensions, in addition to using conventional radar to detect obstacles. A device mounted in the headlights sends out infrared beams that can detect objects not easily seen, enhancing nighttime visibility, it said.

When the system detects a pedestrian or other obstacle, the seat belts retract. If the driver fails to brake, automatic brakes kick in to reduce speed -- and the risk of a collision.

Pedestrian safety is a pressing issue in Japan, where roads tend to be narrow and congested.