Blind Spot Monitor: A First Year Essential?

Blind-spot monitoring systems are now commonplace in vehicles, but when was this technology first introduced? Blind-spot monitoring, also known as BSM, BSW, or BLIS, was first introduced to consumers in 2007 by Volvo, although it was initially presented in a 2001 concept car. This technology uses sensors to detect vehicles in a driver's blind spot and warn them through visual, audible, vibrating, or tactile alerts. While blind-spot monitoring was once a luxury feature, it has now trickled down to economy cars and is widely available as a standard or optional feature.

Blind-Spot Monitoring (BSM) was first introduced in 2007

Volvo, which originated the technology, offered its Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) for the S80 in 2005. Mazda was the first Japanese automaker to offer BSM, initially introducing it on the 2008 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring.

BSM systems use ultrasonic sensors or radar to detect vehicles approaching the rear of your car in an adjacent lane. They can also employ side-mounted cameras to track oncoming traffic. When the system recognises a vehicle about to enter a blind spot, it warns the driver that a particular lane is not clear. The alert usually comes in the form of a yellow warning light on the rearview mirror or the A-pillar. Some systems also provide an audible alert.

More advanced BSM systems can nudge the driver away from the lane marker or steer the vehicle back to the centre of the lane. They may also include "Rear Cross-Traffic Alert", which warns drivers when traffic is approaching from the sides while they are backing out of a parking space.

While blind-spot monitoring is a valuable safety feature, it is not foolproof. It is still recommended that drivers check their blind spots and follow best practices when changing lanes or turning.

BSM uses sensors to detect vehicles in a driver's blind spot

Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) is a vehicle-based sensor device that uses radar or ultrasonic sensors, as well as cameras, to detect vehicles in a driver's blind spot. The sensors are usually located inside the left and right sides of the rear bumpers, while the cameras are placed in the side-view mirror housings. BSM systems warn drivers of vehicles in their blind spots through visual, audible, vibrating, or tactile alerts.

BSM is an advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) designed to increase safety by alerting drivers to vehicles that may not be visible in their side-view or rearview mirrors. While BSM is not a substitute for checking mirrors and looking over one's shoulder, it provides an added layer of safety to compensate for human error.

Most BSM systems will only detect vehicles directly alongside, while some advanced systems can sense objects a few car lengths back. BSM systems typically use visual indicators, such as illuminated icons or flashing lights in the side-view mirror, gauge cluster, or head-up display. These visual alerts are often accompanied by audible warnings, such as beeping tones or repeating chimes. Some BSM systems also offer haptic alerts, such as vibrations through the steering wheel or seat.

The warnings provided by BSM systems vary by manufacturer. For example, some systems may provide a flashing signal or an audio warning if the driver activates a turn signal in the direction of a vehicle in the blind spot. More advanced BSM systems can even provide subtle autonomous steering or braking input to prevent lane changes and potential collisions.

It is important to note that BSM systems have limitations. They are primarily designed for highway use and may not detect vehicles travelling at significantly higher speeds. Additionally, the sensors and cameras must be kept clean and free of obstructions for the system to function properly. While BSM can improve safety, it should be used as an aid, and drivers should still use turn signals, check their mirrors, and look over their shoulders when changing lanes.

BSM alerts drivers with visual or audio cues

Blind-Spot Monitoring (BSM) is a vehicle-based sensor device that detects other vehicles located to the driver's side and rear. BSM systems use cameras and radars to detect vehicles and pedestrians in the driver's blind spot. BSM alerts drivers with visual or audio cues when the system detects a vehicle approaching from the blind spot.

Visual alerts are usually in the form of a yellow warning light on the outboard rearview mirror or the A-pillar (the pillar between the windshield and the front door) on the side of the oncoming car. Some BSM systems also provide an audible alert, which may be a beep or other sound.

The alert may also appear on the driver-information display, the head-up display, or as a flashing light on the entire screen. Some BSM systems pair with the rear cross-traffic alert system, which uses sensors to detect oncoming vehicles and pedestrians when the car is in reverse, providing a visual or audible signal to alert the driver.

The BSM light on the dashboard automatically illuminates when the system is on and detects an approaching vehicle in the blind spot. However, this light can also be due to a false alarm, such as mistaking a pedestrian or parked car for a moving vehicle, or a malfunctioning system.

BSM is now available on most vehicles, not just luxury cars

Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) is an innovative safety system designed to assist drivers in detecting vehicles in their blind spots. Initially introduced as a luxury feature, BSM systems are now available on most vehicles, offering enhanced safety and convenience to drivers.

BSM technology uses sensors or cameras strategically placed on the vehicle to detect and monitor surrounding areas, particularly the blind spots. When a vehicle enters the blind spot zone, the system alerts the driver through visual, auditory, or tactile cues, providing timely warnings to avoid potential accidents.

The integration of BSM systems brings several benefits, including enhanced safety features, prevention of blind-spot accidents, and increased driver confidence and convenience. BSM serves as an additional set of eyes for drivers, reducing the likelihood of collisions caused by lane changes or merging maneuvers.

BSM systems were once exclusive to high-end luxury cars but have since trickled down to become standard or optional on vehicles of all sizes and price ranges. Today, BSM is widely available, from affordable models like the Nissan Kicks S and Kia Forte LXS to full-size pickup trucks such as the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500.

With advancements in technology, BSM systems have evolved to provide more accurate and reliable information, offering an extra layer of protection on the road. Drivers can now find BSM in various types of vehicles, ensuring a safer and more confident driving experience for all.

BSM is not a replacement for checking blind spots manually

Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) is a valuable safety feature that has been shown to reduce lane-change crashes by 14% and reduce injuries from lane-change crashes by 23%. However, it is important to emphasise that BSM is not a replacement for manually checking blind spots. Here are some key reasons why:

Human Error and Technological Limitations

BSM systems are designed to reduce human error by alerting drivers to vehicles that may have escaped visibility in the side-view mirrors. However, it is important to recognise that BSM itself can be subject to limitations and errors. For example, BSM systems may not detect motorcycles or similarly-sized objects, and they have maximum speed differential limits, meaning they cannot detect vehicles travelling significantly faster. Additionally, sensors and cameras must be kept clean and free of obstructions for the system to function correctly.

The Importance of Visual Checks

While BSM can provide an early warning, nothing replaces the act of manually checking mirrors and looking over one's shoulder. This is especially true when travelling in reverse, as BSM systems are primarily designed for highway use and may not function at slower speeds. Furthermore, BSM may not detect vehicles approaching from directly behind in the same lane or from the opposite direction. Therefore, it is crucial to use your eyes and perform visual checks to ensure a safe driving experience.

Active Driving vs Passive Monitoring

BSM is an active driver aid, but it does not replace the need for safe driving practices. While some advanced BSM systems can provide autonomous steering or braking input to avoid collisions, these are not foolproof. The driver always maintains absolute control and can override this feedback manually. Therefore, BSM serves as an assist rather than a replacement for a driver's judgement and safe driving practices, such as using turn signals and watching mirrors when changing lanes.

Frequently asked questions