Audi launches a traffic light recognition system to avoid red lights

Audi has launched a new system called Traffic Light Assist, which has been designed to inform users about traffic lights on their route through a display in the instrument cluster. The technology was first showcased in an Audi A6 prototype at the 2013 Consumer Electronic Show (CES) and is currently being tested by the Ingolstadt-based company in certain cities around the world. 

The system coordinates the car’s Audi Connect system and local traffic control information through the internet, to identify the colour of the signal and a countdown timer. The system shows this information on the display along with the speed which must be maintained by the driver to avoid getting stuck at a red light. The system is also linked to the car’s Start-Stop system and automatically restarts the car five seconds before the light turns to green. 

"The fully functional system is now production ready and could be fitted to every Audi model in the range subject to the necessary government legislation," Audi said.

Some of the merits of this system include a higher efficiency, less emissions besides a more relaxed drive. Audi has estimated that this system could save 900 million litres of fuel annually and reduce CO2 emissions by 15 per cent. 

Audi has been increasingly venturing into development of driving assist systems and also showcased a self-driving car at the 2014 CES. Audi admits that proper functioning of this system would need cooperation of the governments to provide the traffic control information, which would vary depending on the region. But considering the traffic woes here, we are sure that this system would receive a grand welcome in India. This system will be beneficial not just for Audi owners, but also for those who are in a hurry. All they’ll have to do, when they get late for a meeting, is keep following an Audi.