Cadillac Unveils Surround-Video Recording System

General Motors Co.’s Cadillac unit is offering a four-camera video system that takes 360° surround viewing a step further: It also can record videos fore and aft and document activity if the parked vehicle is disturbed.

The system is standard on the all-new 2016 model Cadillac CT6 large luxury sedan. Like other surround systems, it uses multiple cameras to give the driver a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle’s immediate surroundings. Drivers can view the images when maneuvering or parking in close quarters.

They also can employ cameras in the front grille and rear deck lid to record stop-action video fore and aft when the car is underway. In a parked car, the armed system uses those cameras and two more mounted in the outside rearview mirrors to capture exterior videos round-robin style immediately after the vehicle is bumped.

The system stores video on an SD (secure digital) memory card in the trunk. Videos can be saved and/or viewed on a personal computer.

Cadillac notes the four-camera surveillance system is part of the CT6's seven-camera Surround Vision system. The three additional cameras are dedicated to lane assist, night vision and providing an unobstructed rearward view within the inside rearview mirror.