Magna Launches Rearview Mirror/Camera

Magna International Inc. is introducing a video camera-based rearview mirror system to enhance visibility.

Dubbed ClearView, Magna’s technology uses separate cameras for the interior and exterior mirrors.

The exterior side-view mirror has a self-cleaning camera mounted on its farthest point away from the vehicle to maximize the driver’s field of view, according to the supplier. A live feed from the camera is displayed in the vehicle. Turn signal indicators, ground illumination and surround-view capabilities also can be integrated into the system.

The interior unit can switch between a traditional rearview mirror mounted on the windshield and a full-size video display on the infotainment screen. The real-time video feed comes from a camera mounted at the back of a vehicle and provides an unobstructed view of what's behind. In addition to providing a larger field of view than traditional rearview mirrors, the camera-based system also eliminates visual impairments caused by backseat passengers and cargo.

Gentex Corp. and other suppliers and carmakers provide similar systems. Magna, which has been supplying rearview cameras for about a decade, expects the total market for camera-based driver assistance systems will be worth about $10 billion annually by 2020.