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Japanese electronics giant Sony has sprung a surprise at the Consumer Electronics Show with the unveiling of the Vision-S concept car.

 

Sony says the autonomous vehicle offers heightened safety and new emotional experiences. Take that Apple!...and Dyson!

 

Remarkably, the concept looks close to a production-ready model. The show car was built by contractor Magna Steyr who currently build the Toyota Supra, BMW Z4, Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon and the Jaguar I-Pace.

 

This is Sony’s first prototype vehicle which the company will use to demonstrate how its new imaging and sensing technologies, as well as on-board software, telecommunication and cloud technologies, can offer a safe and comfortable commute.

 

Using a total of 33 sensors embedded within the vehicle, it’s able to detect and recognise people and objects inside and outside the car to provide advanced driver support.

 

Dubbed “Safety Cocoon”, a variety of sensors and radar create a 360-degree safe-zone around the vehicle which is designed to enable early preparation to assist in evading hazards.

 

• CMOS image sensors: Highly sensitive high definition and high dynamic range which also suppress LED flicker to achieve accurate object recognition.
• Solid State LiDAR: Uses highly accurate distance measurement to create a precise 3D grasp of real-life spaces.
• Sensor Fusion technology: Merging the capabilities of various sensors to enable early and accurate recognition of objects in all driving situations, such as fog, backlight and night.
• Time-of-Flight (ToF) in-cabin sensing: Using distance measurement technology to detect and recognise people and objects inside the car. The information is then used to optimize the infotainment system and improve safety and comfort inside the vehicle.

The concept car is also fitted with Sony’s “360 Reality Audio” system which provides an immersive audio experience through speakers built into each seat. The front seats also face a panoramic screen.

 

Sony state they will continue to combine advanced technologies to deliver greater safety and reliability whilst striving to inspire new emotion through in-car entertainment experiences.

 

Powertrain details were not revealed at the show, nevertheless, we hope they build it!