Land Rover previews Transparent Bonnet virtual imaging system

Technology 9 Apr 2014

Land Rover is developing an augmented reailty system that allows driver to see a view of the terrain ahead, making the front of the car virtually invisible from the inside.

The so-called “Transparent Bonnet” system features cameras located in the vehicle’s grille that capture data used to feed a Head-Up Display, creating a ‘see-through’ view of the terrain through the hood and engine bay.

The technology enables a driver climbing a steep incline or manoeuvring in a confined space to see an augmented reality view capturing not only the terrain in front of the car but also the angle and position of the front wheels.

Dr Wolfgang Epple, Director of Research and Technology for Jaguar Land Rover, said: “We believe the next 25 years will be the most exciting and dynamic the automotive industry has ever experienced. There will be huge strides in environmental innovation, in safety and capability.

“As our vehicles become more capable and autonomous off-road, we will ensure the driver has the confidence to allow the car to continue to progress, over any terrain. We are developing new technologies including the Transparent Bonnet to give drivers anaugmented view of reality to help them tackle anything from the toughest off-road route to the tight confines of an urban car park.”

Transparent Bonnet is part of a suite of new concept technologies that will be showcased by the Discovery Vision Concept car at the New York International Motor Show.

(Source: Land Rover)