Washington, D.C. – The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has approved General Motors’ use of Gentex’ camera-based rearview mirror system for the Cadillac CT6 when that car goes on sale later this year.
Called Rear Camera Mirror by GM or Full Display Mirror (FDM) by supplier Gentex, the system can act either as a simple mirror, providing a basic reflective surface, or it can serve as a video screen for camera’s mounted at the rear of the car, behind obstructions such as rear-seat passengers and luggage.
”Our FDM is standard mirror when you want it and a bright, unobstructed panoramic display when you need it. It was designed to dramatically improve the driver’s rearward view while also adhering to existing regulatory requirements,” Gentex marketing chief Craig Piersma says. “This ruling means that GM and other Gentex customers can implement FDM into their vehicles with confidence.”
In a letter issued by NHTSA Chief Counsel Paul A. Hemmersbaugh, the administration says camera-based mirrors still meet regulatory mandates, even if automakers add extra functions.
”NHTSA encourages technological innovations that have the potential to provide additional safety benefits to the American public,” Hemmersbaugh say in his letter to GM. “We look forward to working with you and other automotive industry stakeholders on such matters.”
Sources: NHTSA, Gentex