From three continents, Volvo, Nissan and Ford are deploying advanced driver assist and safety systems in 2010 models. Next year’s Volvo S60, for example, will be equipped with a safety system that includes autonomous emergency braking and deceleration. A combined radar and image processing sensor recognises imminent collisions at long and short range.
Driver assistance features in the latest Nissan vehicles include the use of navigation data to warn drivers if they approach a bend at excessive speed.  A haptic signal is sent to the accelerator pedal, urging the driver reduce speed and automatically activating the brakes individually for each wheel according to the relative curve radius.

Meanwhile, Ford’s 2010 Taurus range features ultra-wide band phased array radar for automatic cruise control and collision warning. While the driver is alerted to an imminent collision, the brake pads are moved closer to the discs for quicker response. Autonomous braking is the next logical step.

Analogue components are increasingly making a significant impact in the automotive world. Manufacturers of small engines need to meet stringent emission regulations and improve fuel economy. An analogue controller IC from Freescale will facilitate the replacement of spark plugs, carburettor and distributors with more effective spark coils, fuel injectors and a crank-position sensor. 

Meanwhile, Infineon has launched a single-chip linear voltage regulator for active antenna applications in automotive infotainment systems. About 95% of new vehicles feature one to two active antennas for radio program reception, normally small enough to fit into the windscreen, front bumper or the stub antenna on the car's roof. To date the necessary voltage regulation functions have required many additional components. This integrated, multifunction voltage regulator contributes significantly to space saving.