'ADAS' crux lies in its proactive approach to safety enhancement': TaMo's Mohan Savarkar

In recent times, safety has emerged as a critical consideration for consumers when purchasing a new vehicle. Although factors such as fuel efficiency, advanced features, and attractive design still influence buyer's choices, there has been a notable shift towards prioritising the latest in car safety technology, sturdy build quality, and higher safety ratings. Consumers now anticipate elevated safety standards from their vehicles, prompting manufacturers to diligently address these expectations.

While SUVs are now dominating the Indian automotive market, the compact car segment remains a notable contender, characterised by its agility and unassuming nature. Over time, these vehicles have evolved from basic transportation options into aspirational choices, boasting new technology features, and comprehensive safety kits, which are available at competitive price points. As consumer
preferences continue to evolve, there is a growing demand for vehicles, including smaller cars, to be equipped with cutting-edge safety features, including Electronic Stability Control (ESC), 360 degree Surround View Cameras and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).

Enhanced Safety in Compact Cars

Enhancing safety in compact cars requires a multifaceted approach through thoughtful design considerations, integrating advanced technologies, and a focus on user awareness. Structural design improvements, including reinforced structures and crumple zones form the base enhancing crashworthiness. High-strength materials contribute to overall structural integrity as well as reducing weight and thereby costs.

Upgraded airbag systems and rollover protection further safeguard occupants. Incorporating active safety technology like electronic stability control and traction control enhance vehicle control during diverse driving conditions. The usage of high definition 360 surround view cameras helps navigate safely in Indian scenarios. The adoption of these technologies at scale is driving more localisation, helping reduce costs, making them more accessible to all segments.

Driver monitoring systems and emergency assistance features add layers of protection, promoting real-time information exchange and quick response to potential hazards. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot detection can further significantly reduce the risk of accidents.

Educational campaigns on seatbelt usage and responsible driving complement the technological advancements, fostering a holistic approach to on-road safety. Regular maintenance and inspections ensure sustained functionality of safety features, contributing to the overall safety of compact cars
and the well-being of both occupants and pedestrians.

Importance of ADAS

Among the array of highly sought-after safety features found in contemporary vehicles, ADAS assumes a paramount role in providing drivers with the tools to navigate their vehicles confidently and securely. This system operates through a sophisticated interplay of hardware, software and compute aiming at the core mission of minimising human error and, consequently, elevating the overall safety quotient on our roads.

The essence of ADAS lies in its proactive approach to safety enhancement, where its advanced capabilities extend beyond warnings to encompass real-time detection and response mechanisms to potential obstacles in the vicinity. This proactive stance serves as a formidable line of defence, effectively mitigating the risk of severe and potentially fatal road accidents.

The seamless synergy of these technologies not only empowers drivers with enhanced control and awareness but also ushers in a new era characterised by heightened safety standards and the prevention of accidents on our roadways. In essence, ADAS emerges as a catalyst for redefining the driving landscape, ensuring that safety is not merely an aspiration but a tangible and integrated
aspect of our everyday journeys.

Conclusion

Ensuring safety for all through the widespread integration of active safety technology and ADAS into compact cars is a crucial step towards creating a more secure and safer environment. The democratisation of such technologies empowers a broader range of drivers with access to advanced
safety features, ultimately contributing to a reduction in accidents and promoting a safer road experience for everyone. This evolution marks a significant stride towards a future where cutting-edge safety technologies are not limited to luxury vehicles but are accessible to a broader population, enhancing overall road safety.

The author is Mohan Savarkar, Chief Product Officer, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles. Views expressed are of the author.