Volvo has announced the introduction of the world’s first Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection system with automatic brake at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The new Volvo Cyclist Detection system technology is an enhancement of the current pedestrian detection and automatic braking system. All Volvo cars equipped with pedestrian detection will also incorporate cyclist detection.

How does the Volvo Cyclist Detection System work?

New advanced software, including more rapid vision processing, has made it possible to extend the present detection and auto brake technology to cover certain cyclist situations. An advanced sensor system scans the area ahead of the vehicle. If a cyclist heading in the same direction as the car suddenly swerves out in front of the car as it approaches from behind and a collision is imminent, then there is an instant warning and full braking power is applied.

The Volvo Cyclist Detection System with full auto brake consists of a radar unit integrated into the car’s grille, a camera fitted in front of the interior rear-view mirror and a central control unit. The radar detects objects whether they are pedestrians or cyclists. The high-resolution camera then makes it possible to spot the moving pattern of pedestrians and cyclists while the central control unit continuously monitors and evaluates the traffic situation. The automatic brake system requires both the radar and camera to confirm the object before braking power is applied. The technology also covers vehicles driving in the same lane.

The new Volvo Cyclist Detection System will become available in the Volvo V40, S60, V60, XC60, V70, XC70 and S80 models later in 2013.