Traffic Light Indicator App Bows in New Bimmers

BMW AG has introduced an integrated smartphone app that shows the status of upcoming traffic lights in dashboard displays. Dubbed Enlighten, the free software is available in BMW models equipped with the company's BMW Apps option.

Enlighten currently links to more than 2,000 traffic lights in three U.S. cities: Portland and Eugene, Ore., and Salt Lake City, Utah. The app was developed by Connected Signals Inc., a Eugene-based tech startup that is adding several other cities to its network.

The system shows the current status of an upcoming traffic light (red or green) in real time and displays a countdown indicating when the signal will change. It also uses vehicle position and speed to recommend whether the driver should stop or continue through.

Audio alerts notify drivers of pending changes in the status of a signal they are approaching, or when a light turns green if they are stopped. If a vehicle's turn signal is on, the system automatically syncs to the corresponding traffic signal.

The BMW app can be downloaded to an Apple iPhone from the iOS App Store. Earlier this year Connected Signals introduced aftermarket apps for Apple and Google Android smartphones, provide similar features but aren't integrated with a car's center console display. The company also is working with Toyota and Nissan on in-vehicle apps.

Connected Signals says Enlighten can help improve safety by allowing drivers to anticipate traffic signal changes and prevent them from inadvertently running a red light. It also can provide fuel savings by reducing unnecessary acceleration and hard braking, according to the supplier.

The company's proprietary technology models and predicts light behavior based on programmed settings, historical data and time of day. For lights with less predictable timing patterns, the in-vehicle countdown display is less precise.

Connected Signals says the app also incorporates proprietary technology that more precisely pinpoints a vehicle's location. The company anticipates future upgrades that integrate with emerging connected and autonomous vehicle technologies to enhance navigation systems and traffic flow.