Aston Martin and Gentex working on new tri-camera rearview mirror system

Gentex Corporation and Aston Martin recently announced about their jointly developed camera-based rear vision system. The new invention under the collaboration looks forward to replacing the traditional mirrors in the near future. For the demonstration, the very first mirror was placed in the Aston Martin DBS Superleggera.

The newly developed camera-based rear vision system is set to be featured in the upcoming offerings of the British manufacturer. The mirror is designed to dramatically improve a driver’s ability to monitor traffic at the rear and sides of the vehicle. 

This unique rear vision system developed jointly under Gentex and Aston Martin’s collaboration is also known as a camera monitoring system (CMS). The innovative technology is making news for using three cameras to provide a comprehensive view of the sides and rear of the vehicle. 

The side-view cameras were discreetly placed into each of the demonstration vehicle’s exterior mirrors. The generated video feeds from the provided cameras combined with a roof-mounted camera, displayed together in different views that are streamed to the driver via a rear-view mirror-integrated display inside the cockpit.

“The solution that Aston Martin chose is a hybrid CMS technology, meaning that the vehicle incorporates both cameras and standard reflective mirrors for side vision,” said Gentex Chief Technology Officer Neil Boehm. He further added, “We believe a hybrid solution is the most practical and comprehensive because it’s engineered to meet automaker, driver, safety and global regulatory requirements.”

Gentex claims their CMS (Camera Monitoring System) to be weather foolproof and is exclusively engineered to provide a clear view without any form of blockage. In the case of harsh and extreme weather, the traditional mirrors can still be used as a back-up. 

Although both the companies refused to provide a detailed list of the cars that will feature this new system, Gentex recently began shipping its full display mirror for use in the 2020 Aston Martin DBS GT Zagato. However, the first prototype to feature the arrangement of the new tri-cameras is set to be displayed at the 2020 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, next week.

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