Mercedes-Benz’s new Attention Assist drowsiness detection system will be available in its new E-Class. According to the company, the system “has a highly sensitive feel for its driver’s attentiveness, and warns him of drowsiness ahead of time… [and] is equipped with highly sensitive sensors that continuously monitor more than 70 different parameters.” As a 20-year auto show veteran, I’d like to see this equipment issued at some of the press conferences. After some of the speeches I’ve heard over the years, I’d appreciate anything that would keep me from nodding off--especially this year, with announcements being less dramatic and arguably significant than in years past. So far, the vat of Starbucks I’ve already consumed is doing the job, and we’re on the trail for several interesting stories.
Mercedes’ system comes with “audible warning accompanied by a visual warning in the instrument cluster.” Maybe all the seats at the press conferences could come with wires to shock people awake. No word yet if the system works with the car’s GPS to take you straight to Dunkin’ Donuts or your caffeine dream of choice.
--Mike Quincy
See Consumer Reports' coverage of the 2009 New York auto show.
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