Blind Spot Camera: Right-Side Safety For Cars

Blind-spot cameras are an innovative feature in cars that enhances safety by providing drivers with a live feed of their blind spots. While blind-spot monitors use sensors and alerts to warn about objects in the blind spot, blind-spot cameras offer a more comprehensive view by displaying a live video feed on the instrument cluster or infotainment screen. This technology is especially useful for larger vehicles like SUVs and luxury cars, where blind spots can be more significant. Some car models that offer blind-spot cameras include the Genesis G70, G80, and G90, the Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid and Fuel Cell, the Hyundai Sonata Limited, and the Kia Stinger GT2. However, companies like Honda are phasing out blind-spot cameras in favor of traditional blind-spot monitoring systems, citing cost and functionality concerns.

Honda LaneWatch

The system uses a camera installed below the right, passenger-side mirror to relay an image of the vehicle's right-side blind spot onto the central display screen. This provides drivers with a clear view of any vehicles, objects, or pedestrians in their blind spot, making it easier and safer to change lanes or make turns. It is important to note that Honda LaneWatch™ is an enhancement to the passenger-side mirror, not a substitute.

Blind-spot monitoring systems

There are two main types of blind-spot monitoring systems: blind spot monitors and blind spot cameras. Blind spot monitors typically use a simple light that illuminates on the side mirrors or inside the vehicle, near the mirror. Some systems may also include a warning chime or even provide gentle steering assistance to guide the driver back into their lane if they attempt to change lanes while an object is in their blind spot. While effective, these systems only provide a basic indication of an object's presence and do not offer a direct view.

Blind spot cameras, on the other hand, provide a live video feed of the blind spot area. This feed is displayed on the vehicle's infotainment screen or instrument cluster, giving the driver a clear and direct view of any objects in their blind spot. This technology offers a more comprehensive solution than blind spot monitors, as it provides visual confirmation of the blind spot's contents. Blind spot cameras are often activated when the turn signal is used, providing a live view of the adjacent lane during lane changes.

Some car models that offer blind spot cameras include the 2022 Hyundai Sonata Limited, the Kia Stinger GT2, the Genesis G70, G80, and G90, the Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid and Fuel Cell, and the Hyundai Elantra. However, it is important to note that not all trims of these vehicles may include blind spot cameras as a standard feature. Additionally, some automakers, such as Honda, are phasing out blind spot cameras in favour of traditional blind-spot monitoring systems.

While blind-spot monitoring systems are becoming increasingly common, they are typically found on higher-end or luxury vehicles due to cost considerations. However, as technology advances and costs decrease, these systems are expected to become more widely available across a range of vehicle price points.

Genesis G70, G80, G90

The Genesis G70, G80, and G90 all offer a blind spot view monitor (BVM) as an available feature. This system provides drivers with a live feed of their blind spots, displayed in the instrument cluster when the turn signal is activated. The BVM system in the G70 and G80 is offered as an option across their respective trim lineups, while the G90 includes it as a standard feature even on the base trim.

The BVM system in the Genesis models differs from traditional blind spot monitors, which typically use a simple light or warning chime to indicate the presence of a vehicle in the blind spot. The live video feed offered by the BVM provides a more comprehensive view of the adjacent lanes, enhancing the driver's awareness and decision-making during lane changes.

In addition to the BVM, the G80 and G90 models also feature a blind-spot collision-avoidance system. This system is designed to detect imminent collisions when changing lanes and applies the brakes to "nudge" the car back into its lane, further enhancing safety.

While the BVM system in the Genesis models offers improved visibility and safety, some owners have reported issues with the feature. There have been reports of the BVM not activating properly or functioning intermittently, particularly after rain or in specific driving scenarios. However, these issues may be isolated cases or due to firmware problems that can potentially be resolved through software updates.

It's important to note that the BVM system in the Genesis models displays the camera feed on the instrument cluster, which may require drivers to adjust their gaze slightly from the road. This differs from systems in some other vehicles, such as the Honda LaneWatch, which presents the feed on the infotainment screen.

Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid

The 2021 Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid features standard Honda LaneWatch, which is a camera-based assist that projects a live feed of the vehicle's right-side blind spot onto the car's infotainment screen. This feature activates only when using the right turn signal. LaneWatch is being phased out and has limited availability within the Honda lineup.

The Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants an electric vehicle but also needs the flexibility of being able to take long trips. The car has two trims: Base and Touring. The Touring trim adds a few features, such as Honda Satellite Navigation, full-leather seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and power seats. There are no performance differences between the trims. The electric range, fuel economy, safety features, and engine/motor power of the two trims are identical.

The Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid has a comfortable and roomy interior. The gear selector is suspended on a bridge, which allows for a shelf underneath that can hold items such as a wallet, phone, and notebook. The car also comes with two USB charging ports and a standard power socket.

In terms of performance, the Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid is zippy and responsive, with more than ample acceleration. It has a Sport Mode that increases the responsiveness of the accelerator and makes the car exciting to drive. The car also has paddle selectors for regenerative braking, which allow the driver to control the strength of the braking.

The Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid also has several safety features. In addition to the LaneWatch camera, the car has an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a reverse camera, and a brake-hold system that can keep the car stopped without the driver's foot on the brake pedal. It also has an Adaptive Cruise Control system that maintains a set distance from the car in front and a Lane Keeping Assist System that attempts to keep the car centred in its lane.

Kia Stinger GT2

The 2022 Kia Stinger is a sporty performance sedan available in three trims: GT, GT1, and GT2. The top-of-the-line GT2 trim comes with a Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM) as a standard feature, providing drivers with a live feed from a side-view mirror camera displayed on the car's dashboard or instrument cluster. This advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) offers a significant advantage over traditional blind-spot monitors, which typically only provide a warning light or chime when a vehicle is in the blind spot.

The BVM in the Kia Stinger GT2 is designed to enhance the driver's situational awareness by providing a live video feed of the vehicle's blind spot. This feature is particularly useful when changing lanes or merging onto a highway, as it allows drivers to see if there are any vehicles or obstacles in their blind spot that they might not have otherwise noticed. The system is activated automatically when the turn signal is used, ensuring that drivers have the necessary information before making a manoeuvre.

In addition to the BVM, the Kia Stinger GT2 also offers other advanced safety features, including lane-keeping assist, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features work together to provide drivers with a comprehensive suite of safety technologies that can help prevent accidents and improve overall driving confidence. The GT2 trim also includes a 360-degree camera system, which can be especially useful when parking or navigating in tight spaces.

While the Blind-Spot View Monitor is a significant enhancement to the Kia Stinger GT2, it's important to note that proper mirror adjustment and diligent head checks are still essential for safe driving. The BVM should be considered a supplementary tool that provides additional information to the driver, rather than a replacement for safe driving practices. However, in situations where visibility is limited or when driving in heavy traffic, the BVM can provide invaluable assistance in identifying potential hazards.

Overall, the inclusion of a Blind-Spot View Monitor in the Kia Stinger GT2 trim elevates the vehicle's safety features and driving experience. By providing a live feed of the blind spot, the system offers a level of confidence and peace of mind that traditional blind-spot monitoring systems may struggle to match. For drivers who prioritise safety and situational awareness, the Kia Stinger GT2 is an excellent choice among vehicles in its class.

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