Nissan Motor Company has developed the Smart rearview mirror -- the world's first LCD monitor that provides clear rearward visibility under various conditions and also allows the driver the option to switch between the LCD monitor and the traditional rearview mirror.
Nissan will introduce the Smart rearview mirror at the Geneva motor show 2014. The Smart rearview mirror is housed within the structure of the rearview mirror, with a built-in LCD monitor that can be activated in place of the conventional mirror. A high-resolution camera mounted on the rear of the vehicle provides the driver with a clear unobstructed view of the rear flanks, allowing the ability to check blind spots and other traffic conditions. A control at the bottom of the mirror allows for switching between the LCD and display and traditional rearview mirror.
The manufacturer claims the Smart rearview mirror provides a wider and clearer view when compared to a standard mirror. The high-quality camera and image processing system implemented in the LCD monitor consistently results in a clear image with minimal glare, even during sunrise or sunset conditions or when being followed by a vehicle with strong headlights.
"Smart rearview mirror will give our customers the best possible view, no matter how tall the passengers in the back seat, or the road conditions," said Andy Palmer, chief planning officer and executive vice-president of Nissan. "It also offers the possibility of new and exciting designs for our upcoming models because Smart rearview mirror is an alternative to a very wide rear window for good visibility. We'll have the flexibility to create new shapes, and to further improve aerodynamics for better fuel efficiency."
Nissan plans to implement the Smart rearview mirror in the Zeod RC that is scheduled to compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans and other Nismo race cars. Nissan plans to introduce the Smart rearview mirror first in the Japanese market this year and then to global markets in 2015.
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