Adjusting a non-compliant assistant involves upgrading its functioning
In the realm of automotive safety, Valeo's innovative blind spot assistant, named "Safe Side", is making waves. This system, equipped with two radar sensors operating at 79 GHz, is strategically positioned in the rear bumper of vehicles.
The Safe Side system is designed to recognise vehicles up to 12 meters away and functions reliably within a speed range of approximately 20 to 150 km/h. This universal system is adaptable for cars, SUVs, vans, or motorhomes, so long as they have a plastic rear bumper and a maximum length of six meters.
When the turn signal is activated while a vehicle is in the danger zone, the system springs into action. LED lights flash, and an acoustic warning sounds, alerting the driver to potential hazards.
The blind spot assistant market is not limited to original equipment manufacturers. Companies like Bosch, a leading mobility technology provider, offer retrofit kits for blind spot assistants. Bosch's solutions in driver assistance systems could include retrofit options, making it easier for vehicle owners to upgrade their safety features.
One such retrofit set is the Hella 8XX 358 142-951 Retrofit Set, designed for passenger cars and light commercial vehicles with plastic bumpers.
However, modifications to the vehicle, such as sticking a mirror on the reflective surface of a side mirror, could potentially pose safety concerns and lead to a vehicle's registration being revoked. A legal alternative to such modifications is the use of add-on mirrors that can be attached to the mirror housing, leaving the side mirror in its original state.
Trailer mirrors, while prescribed for towing, are impractical for everyday use. In such cases, a blind spot assistant can provide a more feasible solution.
The cost of retrofitting a blind spot assistant like the Valeo Safe Side can range from 150 to 500 euros per set. While this may seem a significant investment, the peace of mind and enhanced safety it offers make it a worthwhile consideration for many drivers.
In summary, Valeo's Safe Side blind spot assistant is a driving assistance system that warns drivers of vehicles in the blind spot behind and next to the car. This system, along with others in the market, is playing a crucial role in improving road safety and reducing accidents caused by blind spots.
