Microsoft teams up with IAV to develop traffic safety technology

IAV and Microsoft are teaming up to develop a “connected highly automated driving” vehicle, the companies announced at CES 2016. The vehicle, which Microsoft and IAV are calling the CHAD will connect with Microsoft’s Azure and Windows 10 to prevent pedestrian accidents. In addition to this, the companies’ new technology will also increase driving comfort.

IAV and Microsoft will be demonstrating a connected highly automated driving (CHAD) vehicle capable of connecting with the Microsoft Azure cloud and Windows 10 to enable communication that helps prevent vehicle and pedestrian accidents and increases driving comfort and convenience. This new, innovative vehicle-2-x communication (V2X) connectivity approach uses data from the vehicle’s surroundings to improve smart service for convenience and enhance safety by anticipating and mitigating potential hazards. The technological benefits of this approach will be demonstrated at CES based on the following example, a scenario that drove the development: A pedestrian with a wearable device is walking toward the road, concealed by a parked vehicle. The device is located by nearby intelligent roadside infrastructure that is connected to the Azure cloud. This IAV and Microsoft solution incorporates Azure IoT Suite, connected vehicle and infrastructure data, and Cortana Analytics for predictive hazard modelling. Cloud solutions of this nature can be used to transfer information from the surrounding environment, like traffic light sensors, into the connected vehicle to better predict safety procedures. The CHAD vehicle then receives a V2X warning that permits the safe, convenient adjustment of its driving dynamics in order to detect and avoid the hazard in plenty of time. “We see this cloud solution like an additional surroundings sensor,” said Udo Wehner, executive vice president of vehicle integrated functions at IAV.

It is very interesting how Microsoft is getting into automotive with Microsoft Azure and Office 365. Earlier today, the company announced the ability to control Volvo cars with the Microsft Band 2. The company is also teaming up with Harman to bring Office 365 to your car’s dashboard. Interestingly enough, as part of its partnership with IAV, Microsoft will be bringing Continuum for phones to your car’s dashboard. It’s also worth noting that Microsoft Azure will be powering Nissan Telematics System, too.

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