Volvo Trucks enhances Driver Alert Support with eye tracking for safety

In the world of heavy-duty trucking, safety is an ever-evolving concern. Volvo Trucks is stepping up its game by enhancing its Driver Alert Support system with an innovative eye-tracking camera. This cutting-edge technology aims to provide even greater assistance to truck drivers, ultimately boosting road safety.

Long hours on the road demand constant attention from drivers. Recognizing the challenges posed by fatigue and distraction, Volvo is upgrading its Driver Alert Support system to improve its ability to detect and alert drivers showing signs of inattentiveness or drowsiness. This advanced system is designed to provide better support to drivers and contribute to enhanced safety on the roads.

Enhancements in Driver Alert Support

The improved Driver Alert Support utilizes a dual-camera system to detect signs of drowsiness or distracted driving. A new eye-tracking camera, positioned above the side screen of the truck, identifies signs of distraction and alerts the driver with a pop-up message and an audible signal.

Additionally, a forward-facing camera, which is part of the existing Driver Alert Support, monitors driving behavior and the truck's position relative to the lane and the edge of the road. This allows the system to recognize typical characteristics of a drowsy or distracted driver.

Compliance with Enhanced EU Safety Regulations

The upgraded Driver Alert Support already meets the updated EU safety regulations, known as the General Safety Regulation (GSR2). This includes the second stage, which will come into force in July 2026, mandating that all trucks in the EU be equipped with advanced driver distraction warning systems (ADDW).

The new eye-tracking camera from Volvo activates at speeds exceeding 18 km/h, making it a proactive safety feature for drivers.

Standard Features and Availability

The improved Driver Alert Support will be standard equipment for Volvo's heavy-duty trucks (Volvo FH and FM) and medium-capacity trucks (Volvo FL and FE) within the EU. It will also be available in select markets outside the EU, including Norway, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.

In addition, it can be ordered in other markets, with production set to begin in November 2025. Outside the EU, Volvo will continue to offer the existing Driver Alert Support with a forward-facing camera.

Volvo's Commitment to Safety

Safety remains a core value for Volvo Trucks. The company’s best-selling models, the Volvo FH and Volvo FM, achieved the highest rating of five stars in the first heavy truck safety test conducted by Euro NCAP in 2024.

Key Features of the Enhanced Driver Alert Support

• The system is based on two cameras: an eye-tracking camera that detects signs of distraction based on where the driver is looking, and a forward-facing camera that tracks lane markings and compares them with steering movements.
• When signs of distraction or drowsiness are detected, the driver receives an alert via a pop-up message and an audible alarm.
• If inattentive driving continues, a new pop-up message appears alongside an intensified audible warning.
• The system automatically activates when the engine starts.
• The Driver Alert Support system can be deactivated using a switch, as per GSR legal requirements.

Volvo Trucks is not just enhancing safety with technology but is also setting new benchmarks for the industry. The integration of eye-tracking capabilities addresses a critical area of concern — driver distraction — by providing real-time feedback to drivers. This allows them to stay alert and focused on the road, significantly reducing the risk of accidents.

Such advancements in technology raise the question: what does the future hold for truck safety systems? With continuous innovations like these, we can expect a future where road safety is greatly improved through intelligent monitoring systems. The Driver Alert Support system is just one step towards achieving that goal.

For more insights into this innovative system, check out this informative video:

In conclusion, Volvo Trucks continues to lead the industry in safety innovations, ensuring that their vehicles are equipped with the latest technologies to protect drivers and promote safer road practices. With the incorporation of eye-tracking systems and advanced alerts, Volvo is paving the way for a safer future in trucking.

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