Honda set to launch new bird�s-eye view camera

[Plex]

Honda set to launch new bird�s-eye view camera, i SRS airbag in Japan

With technology constantly marching on, there seems to be no end to the amount electronic gadgetry that eventually makes it way into the auto sector. Some new toys we can live without, while a select few actually make life behind the wheel a little better. Thankfully Honda has announced two new technologies that conform to the latter rather than the former.

In the same vein as Nissan�s around view camera system, Honda has announced that it will launch its own version of the technology on its next-generation JDM Odyssey minivan, set to hit the market next month. Like Nissan�s system, Honda�s system will give drivers a bird�s-eye view, but will also help with parking lot maneuvers. Thanks to wide-angle cameras, Honda�s system will actually be able to peer around corners and intersections.

In addition to its new camera technology, Honda also announced that it has developed a safer driver�s front airbag. Unlike conventional airbags, the new unit deploys in controlled stages, instead of one big explosion, according to Automotive News. The new airbag, dubbed i-SRS, actually inflates faster � and stays inflated longer � than a conventional airbag, but uses a spiral-shaped seam to ensure controlled inflation, which translates to a lessened body impact. As with Honda�s new camera system, the i-SRS airbag is slated to first debut in the JDM market.

Although Honda is using the Japanese market as a launching pad for the new technologies, we doubt it will take long for both to make it to U.S. shores.

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