Originally published on September 4, 2013

Honda has developed a new Vehicle-to-Pedestrian communication system to prevent cars from hitting pedestrians by establishing a link between a car and a smartphone.

The system relies on a smartphone's GPS and dedicated short range communications (DSRC), two-way wireless communications channels specifically designed for automotive use, typically within the range of 1000 meters. The DSRC system can be deployed through a mobile phone application with the technology operating on the 5.9 GHz band set aside for automotive applications.

This technology allows both the vehicle and the pedestrian to broadcast their locations and directions of travel. The system alerts both before a potential collision. A head-up display inside the vehicle warns the driver when a pedestrian is about the cross his path, while the pedestrian gets an alert of a car approaching on their smartphone. The system can even show the driver if the pedestrian is texting, making a phone call or listening to music hence the person might be less aware of the car. This system also works even if the pedestrian is obstructed from the view of the driver or when a car is backing up.

Honda is also testing Vehicle-to Motorcycle systems using the same DSRC technology to alert drivers of a potential collision between vehicles and motorcycles. Once the potential for collision is detected, the system will give the car driver auditory and visual warnings.

Honda is not the only one in pursuing this new technology. General Motors is using the similar technology to develop its own pedestrian detecting technology. GM's system uses the Wi-Fi Direct peer-to-peer wireless connection standard to allow smartphones and other connected devices to communicate with cars.

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