First photos of the new 'Face Detection' camera on the new LS600hl

Probably the coolest feature on the new Lexus LS600hl is the new Driver Monitor System with a face detection camera, mounted on the top of the steering wheel...here are the first photos

The LS also offers the world’s first Driver Monitor System.

A third camera, mounted on the steering column, monitors the orientation of the driver’s face. If the camera detects that it appears the driver is not looking directly ahead for a few seconds or more, and if an obstacle is detected ahead, then it alerts the driver first with a warning chime and a flashing light. As the car gets closer to the obstacle, APCS can begin to gently apply the brakes on its own. To assist the driver in maneuvering around the obstacle, the system reprograms the steering ratio, amplifying the intensity and quickness of the steering response.

While all of this is happening, the system automatically retracts the front seatbelts and prepares the brake system to respond with full force when activated by the driver in anticipation of a possible impact.

Our bets are most companies will follow Lexus with systems like this in the future.

EL34 - 5/2/2007 11:48:52 PM

-4 Boost

I guess this Lexus needs a Driver Monitor System because this car will put you to sleep.

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz......

lexusis350 - 5/3/2007 12:00:17 AM

+1 Boost

Because it's so comfortable and quiet? Yeah, I'd buy that.

Agent004 - 5/4/2007 1:52:32 AM

+3 Boost

I wonder if this could double as a security device. Throw in some facial recognition software and only matching faces are allowed to drive it...

LexusKindaGuy12 - 5/3/2007 12:08:40 AM

+5 Boost

dont get me wrong, its amazing technology. But with the japanese making everything smaller, couldnt they have packaged it into something more atractive looking?

SupraNeverBack - 5/3/2007 12:19:28 AM

+6 Boost

I think it looks very small already. What better place do you suggest to put it? The Camera has to be able to see the driver's face.

LexusKindaGuy12 - 5/3/2007 12:54:10 AM

+3 Boost

iono something more compact. Its kinda in your face, but i guess thats its job.

i would have prefered something more discrete and less ugly, get my point? haha

Alec - 5/3/2007 12:48:30 AM

+4 Boost

Very impressive system, but has anyone really taken this to the test? It does looks like a police radar detector at first glance.

david999 - 5/3/2007 3:33:29 AM

+3 Boost

This is a very useful system. I hope others will follow.

S4cabriofoxone - 5/3/2007 6:55:40 PM

+1 Boost

I feel like you actually don't- the instant BMW or Audi or Mercedes (unless they already have) come out with this system, you'll cry how they're copying Lexus. Just a guess...

JUGNU - 5/3/2007 4:34:51 AM

+1 Boost

Now one BIASS/Ignorant German fan will come and say it was there on 1980 MB or Audi introduced it first.

BTW Good Job Lexus.

JUGNU

LexusNumberOne4ever - 5/3/2007 8:14:20 AM

+1 Boost

Some Merc fan said that MB had a 3l V8 in '30s that produced over 500hp.
LOL

answer - 5/3/2007 11:20:41 AM

+1 Boost

About as brilliant as a square wheel.

silent_power - 5/3/2007 11:17:48 AM

+1 Boost

WE all know that LS600h is not a Camry.

Well, LS600h has a bad influence to German fans egoism... Seems that these people can' t stand it anymore.

mkk21 - 5/3/2007 3:15:57 PM

0 Boost

I don't know if anyone tested it out, but I find myself usually driving one handed with my hand on the top of the steering wheel. I was thinking if I had this device on my car and drive like I normally do, my wrist would always be blocking the device. Is the device large enough to see around my wrist, or would it miss my head?

LB13 - 5/4/2007 9:07:57 PM

+1 Boost

mkk21
depends on how big your head is.