Cadillac has revealed its new streaming video mirror that it claims will improve rear vision by 300 per cent, primarily by eliminating obstructions.
Making use of a high-definition camera located at the rear of the car, the rear-view mirror reduces the size of a traditional blind-spot and increases vision four fold, says Cadillac, by eliminating visual obstacles such as the car's roof pillars and occupants.
A crisp view of what's behind (and slightly to the sides) of the vehicle is streamed to the rear-view mirror/screen, which features a 1280x240 pixel TFT-LCD display that can be switched back to a regular mirror.
Apart from being incorporated into the interior mirror, rather than an in-dash screen, the technology differs from existing rear-view cameras by operating at all times – not just while reversing.
The camera also features a "water-shedding hydrophobic coating", which General Motors says is designed to keep it clean and water-free "to maintain visibility regardless of the driving conditions".
The new technology will make its debut on the Cadillac CT6, a brand-new large rear-drive sedan due on sale in the US in late 2015. Its design was influenced by the Elmiraj concept.
The camera also has improved low-light video capture capabilities and Travis Hester, Cadillac CT6 executive chief engineer, says the new streaming technology will appeal to drivers who desire "purposeful technology".
"In addition to the increased field of view, the technology eliminates any rear seat, rear pillar or passenger obstructions, allowing the driver an unimpeded view of the lanes behind and traditional blind-spots.
"The closest comparison to this kind of rear vision would be driving a convertible with the top down," noted Hester.
The new technology provides a crisper image than a traditional mirror, insists Cadillac, and also reduces glare, thanks to the high-res display. It delivers 171 pixels per inch.
Researchers who developed the new streaming mirror registered and were awarded 10 patents – one for the video mirror and nine for the video processing technology.
It seems the humble rear-view mirror that has been a staple automotive technology for more than a century is about to be superseded by video images in a mainstream model, but it's certainly not the first time video cameras have replaced mirrors in cars, with several exotic and niche cars such as the Volkswagen XL-1 doing so previously.