The automobile has undergone countless transformations over the years but none may compare to its latest innovation. Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) communication is revolutionizing the way in which cars on the road interact with one another.
V2V communication’s ability to wirelessly exchange information with other surrounding cars shows great promise in the effort to reduce collisions and significantly decrease traffic accident fatalities. However, the greatest benefits can only be achieved if all vehicles can communicate with each other, which is why the NHTSA has been working with the automotive industry for over a decade in turning V2V’s lifesaving potential into reality.
How It Works
V2V hopes that one-day cars, trucks, buses and even trains will be able to communicate important safety and mobility information to one another to help to save lives, prevent injuries, ease traffic congestion, and improve the environment. The entire system is secured and will not track your vehicle keeping your personal information anonymous.
V2V uses a wireless protocol similar to WIFI called ‘Dedicated Short Range Communications” or (DSRC) for short. When connected with GPS it provides drivers with 360-degree awareness of similarly equipped vehicles within a range of 984 feet. If there is a potential hazard on the road, the vehicle will inform the driver through a visual display, seat vibration or tone. The driver will remain in control as these are only warnings.
Transmitted messages common to all vehicles include:
- GPS Position
- Vehicle Speed Acceleration & Heading
- Vehicle Control Information (transmission state, brake status, and steering wheel angle)
- Vehicles Path History & Path Prediction
A few of the apps that may be available to help prevent car crashes:
- The “Do Not Pass” application: warns drivers when it is not safe to pass a slower moving vehicle.
- The “Emergency Electric Brake Light” application: lets the driver know if a vehicle several cars ahead of you is braking.
- The “Blind Spot” application: (which for many may be the best part of this technology) allows for drivers to virtually see everything that is happening in his or her blind spots.
With an 80 percent lifesaving potential, it is no wonder why the NHTSA and The Department of Transportation have made it their mission to move forward with V2V technology.
