The 2016 Cadillac CT6 will be the first to include a high-resolution streaming video in its rearview mirror, improving a driver’s field of vision by an estimated 300 percent, roughly four times greater than a standard rearview mirror.
“The closest comparison to this kind of rear vision would be driving a convertible with the top down,” said Travis Hester, executive chief engineer for the Cadillac CT6. “In addition to the increased field of view, the technology eliminates any rear seat, rear pillar, or passenger obstructions, allowing the driver an unimpeded view of the lanes behind and traditional blind-spots.”
The vehicle will be fitted with an HD camera designed to enhance rear view lane width and maximize low-light situations. A water-shedding hydrophobic coating is applied to the camera lens to keep it clean regardless of the driving conditions.
Drivers can disable the mirror’s video streaming function by flipping a toggle on the underside of the mirror.
“The streaming video is a significant enhancement for the luxury customer interested in purposeful technology,” Hester says.
Researchers and engineers working on the innovation have been awarded 10 patents — one for the streaming video mirror and nine for video processing. The patents cover innovations in the wide field of view camera image calibration, de-warping, glare reduction, and camera hardware design.
