2016 CADILLAC CTS FEATURES STREAMING VIDEO TO ENHANCE DRIVER VISIBILITY

Cadillac will add high-resolution streaming video to the function of a traditional rearview mirror

Cadillac has plans to change the entire way we look at the traditional rearview mirror by introducing a high-resolution streaming video to it by the end of 2015, as part of removing obstructions of passengers, the vehicle’s roof and rear pillars and headrests. This innovative design of the video mirror is going to enhance the overall driving experience by improving field of vision by an estimated 300 percent. This is four times greater than a normal rearview mirror.

In a recent press release, Travis Hester, Cadillac CT6 executive chief engineer said “The closest comparison to this kind of rear vision would be driving a convertible with the top down. In addition to the increased field of view, the technology eliminates any rear seat, rear pillar or passenger obstructions, allowing the driver an unimpeded view of the lanes behind and traditional blind-spots.”

The latest technological innovation is expected to make its debut by the end of next year on the 2016 Cadillac CT6. So far 10 patents have been awarded to the engineers to so far who have been working on this innovation; nine patents are for video processing and one for streaming the video mirror. About these patents GM has said “The patents cover innovations in the wide field of view camera image calibration, de-warping, glare reduction and camera hardware design.”

The video feed from the camera is going to reduce the glare effect and generates a crisper image of low-light situations as compared to traditional glass electrochromatic, or auto-dimming, rearview mirror. The in-mirror has been equipped with an industry-leading 1280 by 240-pixel TFT-LCD display with 171 pixels per inch which has been paired with an HD camera which is the company’s own creation. This is going to “enhance rear view lane width and maximize low-light situations” according to a statement by GM.

The camera setup has been designed in such a way that it will work flawlessly in all kinds of weather even the harsh winters as each of the cameras have been coated with a water-shedding hydrophobic coating so they stay clean to maintain visibility. “The streaming video is a significant enhancement for the luxury customer interested in purposeful technology,” Hester said.