Dealer Survey Reveals Demand For Blind Spot Detection Technology

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Dec. 15, 2003 -- Valeo Raytheon Systems (VRS) today released a study quantifying dealer demand for Blind Spot Detection technology.

The study found that nearly three-quarters of automotive dealers surveyed by VRS reported that Blind Spot Detection technology would be a positive safety feature and having vehicles installed with this technology would give them a competitive advantage in the marketplace. Ninety-five percent of the dealers surveyed expressed a desire for vehicles they sell to have a Blind Spot Detection system.

"The results of this survey illustrate the need for blind spot detection technology and the integration of sensor technology in future vehicles," said Helmut Wodrich, chief operating officer, Valeo Raytheon Systems. "Not only will consumers continue to demand driver assistance features in the vehicles they purchase, but dealers look to automotive manufacturers to provide them vehicles equipped with technology that will set them apart from the competition."

The data matches market trends described in a recent white paper, "Lane Change Assistance" published by VRS. The paper outlines the factors that contribute to blind spot-related mishaps and trends that demonstrate the increasing need for blind spot detection systems in the future.

According to NHTSA data for North America, nearly 830,000 vehicles will be damaged or destroyed in blind-spot related lane change accidents during 2004. Vehicle structure and visibility constraints are two factors that create blind spots and cause lane change accidents. Driver vision can be restricted by vehicle architecture, mirror image resolution, the driver's field of vision, and the driver's personal mobility, thereby creating blind spots. A driver's cognitive condition and focus issues are also contributing factors.

"Almost every driver has experienced a near collision when changing lanes. Blind Spot Detection sensors can serve as 'lane change assistants,' combating the constraints of vehicle structure and driver visibility and helping drivers to avoid accidents," said Wodrich. "Valeo Raytheon Systems' Blind Spot Detection sensors are the only sensors available today that provide nearly 180-degree field of view and angular resolution within the sensor range, allowing for unprecedented accuracy in tracking direction, speed and distance of a vehicle in the driver's blind spot."

Throughout the coming decade, many trends including increased traffic congestion and driver distraction will influence the need for lane change assistant technology. And the proliferation of driver distractions -- from mobile phone use, navigation system interaction, radio station focus, and even passenger dialog -- will demand increasing amounts of drivers' time and attention.

"Help is on the way with Blind Spot Detection technology that provides sensor lane change assistance and helps drivers fully assess their driving environment," said Wodrich.

Valeo Raytheon Systems' radar-based Blind Spot Detection (BSD) technology alerts drivers to potential risks presented by objects in their blind spot. A single radar sensor on each side of the vehicle continuously scans the adjacent lane of traffic from the rear view mirror to about one or more car length behind the rear bumper. Drivers are notified of potential risks by a lighted icon warning light in the outside rear-view mirror and can be augmented by an audio tone inside the vehicle, at the driver's option.

Valeo Raytheon Systems' Blind Spot Detection technology was introduced in 2002 at the Convergence industry trade show in Detroit. The system was introduced to the European market at the 2003 International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, Germany. VRS expects the system to be installed on 2007 model year vehicles.

Survey Methodology

Valeo Raytheon Systems, Inc. identified 20 dealerships in the Detroit metropolitan region during September and October, 2003. These dealerships represented a variety of vehicle brands, including Audi, BMW, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Honda, Jaguar, Jeep, Lexus, Lincoln, Mercury, Pontiac, Saab and Volvo. VRS provided the dealerships with a demonstration vehicle, a common set of instructions and five surveys. The dealer selected five sales people to read the information, drive the vehicle and answer the questionnaire. Respondents read product feature descriptions, drove the vehicle, then completed the survey.

About Valeo Raytheon Systems, Inc.

Valeo Raytheon Systems, Inc., a joint venture between Valeo and Raytheon is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan and has facilities in Hudson, NH, and Bietigheim, Germany. VRS designs, manufactures and markets radar based sensor systems to help drivers see their driving environment more clearly, and increase drivers confidence and comfort to make better driving decisions.

About Valeo

Valeo is an independent industrial group, fully focused on the design, production and sale of components, integrated systems and modules for cars and trucks and ranks among the world's top automotive suppliers. The Group has 125 plants, 55 R&D centers, 9 distribution centers and employs some 67,000 people in 25 countries. Valeo is headquartered in Paris, France.

About Raytheon

Raytheon Company , with 2002 sales of $16.8 billion, is an industry leader in defense, government and commercial electronics, space, information technology, technical services, and business and special mission aircraft. With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs more than 76,000 people worldwide.