Suzuki Motor Corporation has adopted Hitachi Automotive Systems’ stereo camera, with night-time pedestrian detection features, for its Spacia series of mini passenger vehicles launched in August 2020 with enhanced safety features.

In recent years, automatic brake systems have been gaining recognition as an effective method to prevent traffic accidents. In 2021, automatic brakes will be a mandatory feature for all new passenger vehicles produced in Japan. Vehicular safety has been improving with the increased adoption of advanced safety technologies, such as advanced emergency braking systems (AEBS) and pedestrian detection and protection systems. These have led to an increase in overall vehicle safety, which is expected to promote an increase in demand for new vehicles.

The Spacia's improved safety devices include a new dual camera braking support, which detects pedestrians even at night, and adaptive cruise control. In addition, the Spacia series has enhanced advanced driver assistance system (ADAS), including improved recognition of road signs, such as stop signs. These features are supported by Hitachi Automotive Systems' stereo camera with night-time pedestrian detection. The stereo camera leverages Hitachi's unique machine learning technology, making it possible to detect pedestrians with a high level of precision.

Hitachi Automotive Systems is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hitachi, Ltd., headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. The company is engaged in the development, manufacture, sales and services of automotive components, transportation related components, industrial machines and systems, and offers a wide range of automotive systems including Powertrain Systems, Chassis Systems and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems.