Now You See It: JLR Shows See-Through Camera Technologies

Jaguar Land Rover Ltd. is developing a new camera system that allows motorists to effectively see through the trailers they're towing.

The so-called transparent trailer system combines a vehicle's existing side blind-spot and back-up assist cameras with a wireless camera placed on the rear of the trailer. The multiple feeds are combined to create a single live video displayed on the rearview mirror, with the towed object appearing as a translucent image.

The system is designed to improve safety and reduce driver stress during towing maneuvers, according to the carmaker. It says prototype displays have a high-quality video image with no distortion or obstructions.

In addition, JLR's demonstrator vehicle equipped with the technology also includes another camera that lets drivers monitor a trailer's cargo while driving or remotely via a smartphone app.

This would allow motorists to check on the well-being of horses and other animals via the camera feed, which can be combined with information about ambient temperature.

Using floor-mounted pressure mats, the app also can detect if packages and other cargo have shifted during transport, JLR says.

The company previously has demonstrated similar camera technologies that allowed drivers to "see-through" the hood during off-roading and through door pillars to minimize blind spots. JLR hasn't said if or when it plans to commercialize the systems.