Toyota's new safety tech can talk to the road and other cars

Toyota has announced plans to bring a range of active safety technology to the market, including vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communication that could appear in its model line-up as early as next year.

The technology, which goes beyond current manufacturers' radar and camera-based hazard warning systems, relies on the wireless frequencies from Integrated Traffic Systems that monitor traffic flow and various other road changes. The same frequency can be used to 'talk' to other cars near you.

In a situation where you arrive at a junction with no clear view, sensors detect oncoming traffic or pedestrians in the road and display the information on your car's dashboard. Individual vehicles can also indicate their presence and display a warning so the driver can take action to avoid an incident.

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The system can even be used to improve radar-guided cruise control, by keeping a closer eye on what the vehicle in front will do to allow smoother and safer acceleration and braking. The Japanese firm claims it is working closely with governments and transport agencies so it can roll out the technology for use in the near future. 

Japanese Toyota and Lexus models are most likely to receive the systems first, but the US and Europe shouldn't be far behind. 

Alongside this, the Japanese firm has made changes to its adaptive-LED headlamp systems to allow individual LEDs to be automatically controlled to illuminate the road ahead without dazzling other drivers. This feature will roll out across premium Toyota and Lexus cars next year.

Do you think active safety tech should be rolled out to all cars? Let us know in the comments below...