George Frangeskides, Chairman at ALBA, explains why the Pilbara Lithium option ‘was too good to miss’. Watch the video here.
‘Just a glance’ is distracted driving.
Whether peeking at your phone or checking on your toddler in the back seat, drivers take their eyes off the road for an average of five seconds when glancing. If you’re traveling at 55 mph, that’s like driving the distance of a football field with your eyes closed.
Magna’s Driver Monitoring System technology is the future of distracted driving prevention. With our DMS solution integrated into the inside mirror, we can monitor the driver and cabin, keeping you and everyone else on the road safer.
See for yourself how DMS works: https://bit.ly/3TOdiR3
More research into BMW Group's plans to integrate DMS across its entire model line. This slide from the Nov. 2023 investor presentation shows the model refresh schedule. BMW is typically adding DMS with the introduction of BMW Operating System 8.5 and 9. For example from July 2023, the BMW models 7 Series, iX, i4, X5, X6 and X7 as well as the M models X5 M, X6 M and XM were refreshed to use BMW Operating System 8.5. This is the point where the Gen. 2 DMS is being installed, usually in the instrument cluster. The slide shows BMW is also underway with installing DMS across the MINI model portfolio, which has been confirmed from previous research.
Since the new #safety regulations apply even to ultra-low volume models, BMW has also had to update the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars family. Shown in the top right of the picture is confirmation that BMW has already added DMS to the Rolls-Royce Spectre, with the now familiar purplish glow of the 940nm IR illuminators showing on the left side of the instrument cluster.
As previously discussed, BMW Gen. 2 DMS is assumed to be supplied by Seeing Machines, replacing the Gen. 1 DMS from Smart Eye.
For institutional investors, family offices, and others seeking an expert third-party source to understand trends in the #DMS, #CMS and #OMS market, I can be booked for telephone-based consultancy via GLG, Guidepoint, and Third Bridge Group Limited. Just ask for me by name.
Must have SEE in ;)
Our drive to a greener future in Europe continues today as we are thrilled to announce a milestone deal to provide 46 Wrightbus Kite Hydroliner hydrogen buses to Germany.
The buses ordered by Cottbusverkehr GmbH will serve the city of Cottbus, and are the operator’s first hydrogen buses. They are VDV compliant and also meet the requirements of the European General Safety Regulation GSR2, which covers safety and the protection of vehicle occupants and vulnerable road users.
paul mcglone, ceo of seeing machines, is similarly optimistic about the potential for full cabin monitoring. the company has recently partnered with magna to integrate a dms into a rearview mirror, which offers a suitable viewpoint, and further developed its algorithm to support more features – for example, closer interactions between the dms and adas functions and enabling smarter, ai-driven, digital assistants.
“as driver adoption increases over time, accelerated by regulatory tailwinds, the optical and processing systems put in place can then be harnessed to offer a range of value-adding features to the manufacturer, the driver and indeed passengers,” he explains.
“this includes features based around convenience, such as simulating augmented reality using eye position, comfort (for example, adapting the ****pit to the driver’s profile) and also extending the safety of other occupants in the vehicle. moreover, over-the-air updates mean these features can be sold to models already on the road.”
cabin monitoring is also a development focus for smart eye, and company ceo martin krantz notes a significantly higher level of complexity involved. while a dms would typically have 20 features, cabin monitoring requires higher-resolution cameras with a wider field of vision, supporting up to 100 features – including the state of occupants, forgotten object detection and even the position of child seats.
for suppliers, those next stages include increased need to understand and interpret human physiology – such as intoxication, drowsiness and ill health – and the automotive industry is benefiting from research in other areas. smart eye technology is supporting studies of human behaviors for qualitative studies, and monitoring responses to entertainment and advertising.
https://www.autonomousvehicleinternational.com/features/feature-driver-monitoring-systems-trends-and-developments.html
Stay Aware for Everyone (SAFE) Act
The third bill – the Stay Aware for Everyone (SAFE) Act – will tackle the threat of distracted driving, a problem that is only increasing with the proliferation of “driver assistance” technologies that can encourage complacency if misused on the road. The SAFE Act will specifically require the DOT to study how driver-monitoring systems can prevent driver distraction, driver disengagement, automation complacency, and the foreseeable misuse of advanced driver-assist systems. The legislation also requires a rulemaking to mandate the installation of driver-monitoring systems based on the results of this study, which shall incorporate appropriate privacy and data security safeguards.
A copy of the SAFE Act can be found HERE. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) is also a cosponsor of this legislation.
https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-markey-and-blumenthal-lead-reintroduction-of-four-auto-safety-bills-to-improve-recalls-enhance-defect-reporting-upgrade-seat-back-safety-and-prevent-distracted-driving
Three U.S. senators want driver monitoring systems
WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Three Democratic U.S. senators on Monday said they are introducing legislation that would require U.S. regulators to mandate installation of driver-monitoring systems to ensure motorists pay attention while using systems like Tesla's Autopilot.
Senators Ed Markey, Richard Blumenthal and Amy Klobuchar introduced the measure on Monday, saying they hope to get it included as part of infrastructure reform legislation. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has opened 28 probes into Tesla crashes to date, with 24 pending, where Autopilot was suspected of being in use.
The measure also requires the agency "to study how driver-monitoring systems can prevent driver distraction, driver disengagement, automation complacency, and the foreseeable misuse of advanced driver-assist systems."
NHTSA said it does not comment on pending legislation. Tesla did not respond to a request for comment.
In a letter to NHTSA last week, Blumenthal and Markey said Tesla has "been criticized for misrepresenting the capabilities of their vehicles’ automated driving and driver assistance
https://ca.style.yahoo.com/3-u-senators-want-driver-153741757.html
April 25, 2024 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The all-new 2025 Ram 1500 RHO makes its debut today and once again cements Ram Truck as North America’s off-road truck leader. As the latest example in a long line of performance truck leadership, the Ram 1500 RHO offers the best value with more horsepower per dollar ($129.60) than any other off-road offering.
Hands-free Driving Assist, the company’s name for Level 2+ (L2+) automated driving capability, offers hands-off driving and lane centering on approved roadways for even greater driving convenience. The system will predictively slow the vehicle down in tight curves, automatically resume control after driver override and verify that the driver is paying attention to the road.
Available class-exclusive dual wireless phone charging enhances functionality for front passengers and connectivity ports that are sculpted for quick recognition.
https://media.stellantisnorthamerica.com/newsrelease.do?id=25843&mid=1
Musk reckons there’s a solid shot Tesla will ink a Full Self-Driving (FSD) licensing agreement in 2024, as he mentioned during the company's Q1 earnings call.
Tesla's top dog, Elon Musk, spilled the beans that he's in discussions with a big-time car manufacturer regarding licensing Tesla's electric vehicle tech and their much-touted Full Self-Driving software, which is currently undergoing trials on public streets. During an investor call, Musk revealed this juicy tidbit, which also veered into updates about the Cybertruck, upcoming robotaxis, artificial intelligence, robotics, and even futuristic bionic limbs.
As of April 24, 2024, Elon Musk shared that discussions were already underway with a major original equipment manufacturer (OEM) regarding the potential utilization of Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology. Musk emphasized Tesla's openness to licensing the technology, stating that they are not aiming to keep it exclusive. During the second-quarter earnings call of 2024, Musk elaborated further, indicating ongoing discussions with a prominent automaker.
https://arcoche.com/blogs/tesla-news/who-might-license-teslas-full-self-driving-software-elon-musk-suggests-its-in-the-works
The hands-free driving assist system that debuted for Stellantis on the other 2025 Ram 1500s is also available on the RHO. Like GM’s Super Cruise and Ford’s BlueCruise, this system is only usable on pre-mapped highways and allows the driver go hands-off while cruising, but they must keep eyes-oin road and be ready to take back the wheel at any time.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/samabuelsamid/2024/04/25/the-2025-ram-1500-rho-may-not-be-a-trx-but-its-not-far-off/?sh=58dd49532a21
The International Energy Agency (IEA) said that 2024 will be record-setting for electric vehicles sales, with China leading the market.
The Paris-based energy watchdog forecasted that electric car sales will hit 17 million this year, compared to 14 million in 2023. More than one in five cars sold globally is set to be electric, according to the IEA.
"Rather than tapering off, the global EV revolution appears to be gearing up for a new phase of growth," said IEA Director Fatih Birol.
"The wave of investment in battery manufacturing suggests the EV supply chain is advancing to meet automakers' ambitious plans for expansion. As a result, the share of EVs on the roads is expected to continue to climb rapidly."
https://english.webdunia.com/article/deutsche-welle-news/electric-cars-sales-expected-to-rise-to-new-record-in-2024-124042400018_1.html
The latest iterations of the all-electric BMW i4 and the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé are set to further cement their distinctive presence in the market with new design enhancements and the introduction of the latest digital capabilities.
Already boasting best in class driving dynamics, both the i4 and combustion-engine variants of the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé benefit from refined and refreshed exterior aesthetics including newly designed headlights and optional Laserlight tail lights which enhance their striking presence on the road. Newly introduced exterior paint options and light-alloy wheel designs offer more choice and opportunity for individualisation.
Inside, both models feature the BMW Curved Display which integrates the latest version of the BMW iDrive with QuickSelect, based on BMW Operating System 8.5. This revised setup offers an optional Augmented View for the BMW Maps navigation system, enhancing functionality and user interaction. The cabin experience has been refined with new steering wheel designs, fresh interior trim elements and contemporary seat coverings, further elevating the luxurious feel of these models.
Production of the new BMW i4 and BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé is set to continue at BMW’s home plant in Munich, which is currently undergoing significant investment which will see the facility transition exclusively to all-electric models in future. The global market launch of both models will commence in July 2024, with key markets including the USA, Germany, UK and China. BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé is priced from £43,830 RRP in the UK, with the BMW i4 starting at £50,365 RRP.
The world premiere of the BMW i4 in 2021 established purely electric mobility at the core of the BMW brand. The i4 was the first premium model in the midsize class and brought the brand’s signature design, material and build quality, individualisation and intuitive operation together with locally emission-free mobility.
In addition, the unmatched overall design coherence of the BMW i4 continues to elevate it above all its rivals. Its sophisticated chassis technology, tuned precisely to the vehicle concept and the performance characteristics of the all-electric drive system, delivers an engaging driving experience in the unmistakable style of the BMW brand.
https://www.automotivepurchasingandsupplychain.com/new-refreshed-bmw-i4-and-the-new-bmw-4-series-gran-coupe-launched/
With a unique focus on mental modalities, Andrey Filimonov, Director of Research at Harman International, gives us an insight into the current landscape and future challenges of developing Driver Monitoring Systems, ahead of his presentation at InCabin USA this May.
1. The current focus in Driver Monitoring Systems (DMS) primarily revolves around visual distraction. Can you share the motivation behind Harman’s emphasis on mental distraction as a crucial factor in driving safety? What sparked the interest in exploring the impact of mental states on driving performance?
Yes, DMS systems are mostly about monitoring if people physically look to road. With well-developed eyegaze tracking technologies visual distraction or “eyes on road” is a low hanging fruit. However, visual distraction is just of the factors leading to worse driving performance. So called “cognitive distraction” is equally dangerous. Cognitive distraction is when your eyes are on road, but your mental effort is somewhere else. If you drive and if you ever picked up a phone call while driving, you might find yourself in a situation when you reached your destination point, but you didn’t remember how you’d done. You attention was so much consumed by the phone call that you drove almost subconsciously. We proved that doing things like this may result in having 5x bigger chances to get into an incident or 6x bigger chance to miss a route. It’s the same as you’d miss it because you didn’t look to road. The inspiration part of it comes from a much bigger scope. Harman has a research department focusing on human mental state detection. “Mind on road” is just one application for our human mental state sensing technology. The department emerged because we were able to gather a very strong cross-discipline team of psychophysiologists, mathematicians, physicists, machine learning and data analysis engineers together and tackle the problem of sensing human state from multiple directions. None of these areas of expertise alone would allow to solve the problem.
https://incabin.com/blog/an-interview-with-andrey-filimonov-harman-international/?utm_campaign=ICUSA24&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--Fz4m-G_by9Hzfy95KusqH-weXAmoOcQfF7c-9ORN_PWvwlSciMivJBRMmZZADir2psAM1xnbhZm6iUfiTl0bSVFF4sw&_hsmi=304306394&utm_content=304306394&utm_source=hs_email
Anyone with a calculator?
In terms of DMS adoption across automakers, BMW Group is now far in the lead of global deployment and looks set to reach 100% fitment across the BMW and MINI brands sometime this year.
A few behind still....
General Motors’ Super Cruise is a semi-autonomous driver assist feature that allows drivers to remove their hands from the steering wheel during extended periods of highway driving on certain roads. The technology debuted on the 2018 Cadillac CT6 and has since been gradually introduced to numerous vehicles in The General’s portfolio, and as of Q1 2024, Super Cruise is officially available in 15 nameplates in the GM family.
During GM’s Q1 2024 earnings presentation, the automaker reiterated that Super Cruise is available in certain Buick, Cadillac, Chevy and GMC models currently offered in the U.S. market.
Specifically, the following 15 nameplates currently featuring Super Cruise technology.
Buick Enclave
Cadillac Celestiq
Cadillac CT4
Cadillac CT5
Cadillac Escalade
Cadillac Lyriq
Cadillac XT6
Chevrolet Blazer EV
Chevrolet Silverado 1500/Silverado EV
Chevrolet Suburban
Chevrolet Tahoe
GMC Acadia
GMC Hummer EV
GMC Sierra 1500/Sierra EV
GMC Yukon
Looking ahead, several more vehicles – all three of them EVs – will feature Super Cruise as they are introduced throughout the 2024 calendar year, including the Chevy Equinox EV, the Cadillac Optiq and Cadillac Escalade IQ. That’ll bring the total up to 18 vehicles with Super Cruise, and while that’s no small number, it is a bit short of GM’s initial rollout plan. Back in 2020, the automaker announced intent to include its semi-autonomous driver assist feature in 22 vehicles by the end of 2023.
As GM Authority previously reported back in June 2022, the midcycle refresh for the 2024 Cadillac XT4 was expected to bring Super Cruise, although the feature wasn’t available at launch, and it’s not clear when (or if) it will be added to the luxury crossover. The same goes for the 2024 Buick Envision, which was also expected to feature Super Cruise, although this vehicle will not get the technology at all – at least not for 2024. The Chevy Bolt EUV offered Super Cruise as an option, but the electric crossover is no longer in production.
https://gmauthority.com/blog/2024/04/super-cruise-now-available-in-15-gm-nameplates/
Eletrac Navman has enhanced its AI-powered IQ Camera system to include driver distraction, mobile phone usage and drowsy driver detection.
The IQ Camera’s video telematics capabilities can identify behaviour, such as mobile phone use, erratic head movements and gaze deviations, and help the driver maintain focus on the road.
For driver fatigue, continuous monitoring of physiological indicators, such as eye closure duration and head position, triggers timely alerts to combat drowsiness and fatigue-related collisions.
"AI-powered video telematics solutions leverage advanced algorithms to monitor different aspects of driver behaviour,” said Mayank Sharma, global head of product management at Teletrac Navman.
“We are excited to bring these new detection features to the market through the IQ Camera and provide real-time alerts and insights to reduce the likelihood of incidents and promote the well-being of drivers."
The system's Drowsy Driving detection feature addresses the critical issue of driver fatigue by analysing eye closure duration to detect signs of drowsiness, providing timely alerts. The suite’s Cell Phone Distraction Monitoring is designed to combat the dangers of mobile phone-related distractions, by detecting when drivers hold their phones to their ears for a specified duration, taking proactive measures to discourage illegal behaviour and promote a safer driving environment.
In cases when distraction, phone use or drowsiness is detected, and the time parameters are met, an alert is triggered to the driver. They’ll hear an audible spoken word alert and to the back-office team as an event with footage and telematics data in Teletrac Navman’s fleet management system.
“Fleet managers gain real-time footage alongside data insights and are empowered to protect their drivers and gain a competitive edge to win business,” added Sharma.
“By showcasing the solutions available through the latest technology, including route optimisation, delivery tracking and always-accessible location services, Teletrac Navman can help businesses of all sizes become a transport partner of choice."
https://www.fleetnews.co.uk/news/teletrac-navman-introduces-ai-powered-driver-distraction-detection
BlackBerry QNX, Magna up for Automotive News PACE Awards
The two Canadian companies combined to earn three nominations
Magna earned two nominations. The first is an interior mirror that sees distracted driving. Magna integrates an intelligent camera system into the rearview mirror to detect, predict and react to distracted driving.
https://canada.autonews.com/suppliers/blackberry-qnx-magna-automotive-news-pace-awards#:~:text=MAGNA%20INNOVATIONS,and%20react%20to%20distracted%20driving.
WHAT: Integrated driver- and occupant-monitoring system
INNOVATION: Magna integrates an intelligent camera system into the rearview mirror to detect, predict and react to distracted driving. A high-resolution camera, infrared emitters and electronic control unit are contained in the mirror and use advanced software to monitor the movement of the driver’s head, eyes and body in real time to detect distracted behavior, drowsiness and fatigue.
FIRST CUSTOMER: Volkswagen
WEBSITE: magna.com
10;12 - 11:16 AM counted 36 trades, so thats every 30 seconds. Had a lot of Bot trades selling over the Years. I always think Iffy when only £50 trades.
Good that someone feels the need to try keep the SP lower, but as always a mystery.
Cant wait for TPIs as getting boring around here with the SP. Could do with some Fleet news aswell :)
General Motors Company (NYSE:GM) has reported a robust performance in the first quarter of 2024, with CEO Mary Barra announcing raised full-year guidance based on the company's growth and profitability, particularly in its electric vehicle (EV) segment. GM's revenue reached $43 billion, with an EBIT adjusted of $3.9 billion and an adjusted automotive free cash flow of $1.1 billion. Notably, GM's EV business is expanding, with the Cadillac LYRIQ leading sales among European luxury brand EVs in Q1. The company is also progressing with Cruise, its autonomous vehicle subsidiary, and is exploring funding options, including potential outside investments.
h2 Key Takeaways/h2
https://m.uk.investing.com/news/stock-market-news/earnings-call-gm-raises-fullyear-guidance-amid-strong-ev-growth-93CH-3451889?ampMode=1