The idea of integrating breathalyzers into engine starting systems has long been pursued by the automotive industry, but in practice it is difficult to implement because it requires analyzing the composition of the air exhaled by the driver.
South Korean company PiQuant has proposed an alternative solution - technology that measures blood alcohol concentration through fingerprint-based sensors. If blood alcohol concentration is detected by the spectroscopy method, the car will be blocked from starting. The solution aims to reduce the rate of drunk driving, automatically putting the car into self-driving mode as soon as the driver presses the start button.
The driver will not be able to trick the system into starting the car with the help of a sober person, because the verification system will only accept fingerprints that are on a pre-established whitelist. However, before such technology appears in Mercedes-Benz cars, it will face a long period of testing, improvement and certification.
Today, some lesser-known Korean startups are actively involved in creating innovative solutions for major auto brands. European automakers are eyeing other Korean solutions, such as in-car directional audio technology and self-driving car infrastructure.
In collaboration with Mercedes-Benz Korea, JD Solution has developed a directional audio module for cars. This technology enables the generation of directional sound waves, allowing drivers to hear voice prompts and carry out conversations via a hands-free system, while other passengers in the cabin will not hear these sounds.
BMW has deployed Seoul Robotics’ solution for its autonomous driving infrastructure at its Dingolfing plant in Munich, Germany. The technology turns conventional vehicles into autonomous vehicles by installing LiDAR sensors and cameras on poles and ceilings instead of on the vehicles themselves. Dingolfing is BMW’s largest plant in Germany.
Epikar is providing BMW Korea with its Dealer Management Solution (DMS) technology, including the Test Drive Solution to automate the test drive process and the Smart Workshop System for real-time vehicle management.
The global impact of innovation in the automotive sector is highlighting the role small businesses can play in shaping the future of transportation.
(according to Hitech)
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