Automobile Producers Racing to Develop Biometric Technology
Global automobile makers are keen to incorporate biometric technology in their vehicles.
Biometric technology is drawing attention from automobile producers amid a rapid penetration of electric vehicles (EVs).
Tesla is currently developing a technology to apply facial recognition to the advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) of the Model 3 and the Model Y. This technology is an improvement on facial recognition for autonomous vehicles and is mixed with various functions that boost payment convenience and safety in vehicles.
Facial recognition can be used to track passenger locations in vehicles or personalize settings, according to a Fox News report about Tesla’s patent application. Filmed data is stored and processed in storage devices in vehicles, eliminating the possibility of data leakage and security problems.
Along with facial recognition, the Tesla technology also includes a real-time detection of roads and terrain. Tesla is pushing to elevate its technological level with infrared emitters and sensors that detect light from projectors.
Fingerprint authentication is also being introduced into vehicles. Kia’s large sedan K9 is a case in point. Kia applied a fingerprint recognition system to personalized profiles. Upon recognizing the driver’s fingerprint, the vehicle automatically sets the positions of the seats and side mirrors and climate control. This technology is able to change the layout of digital devices as well.
A real-time payment function is likely to be most frequently used. Personalized fingerprint recognition will realize payments without physical credit cards at various places.
Chinese automakers are working on more diversified biometric functions. Changan Automobiles of China is developing a dual-screen touch interface loaded with face recognition and voice interaction technology.
In addition, Foxconn is testing a system that implements biometric authentication and remote commands in augmented reality by partnering with automaker Stellantis. Under the agreement, Foxconn plans to develop a cockpit technology system for Stellantis first and then provide it to other manufacturers.
Foxconn is also in talks with Fisker, an American electric vehicle manufacturer. In January, the company signed a contract with Volvo and its parent company, Geely, to expand its ecosystem for biometric systems.