Subaru Unveils Hands-Free Driving Tech, Australian Availability Uncertain
Subaru has joined the growing ranks of automotive manufacturers introducing advanced hands-free driving capabilities, with its latest innovation, EyeSight Highway Hands-Free Assist, now standard on the new-generation Outback Touring and Touring XT models in the United States. For existing US owners, this cutting-edge feature is available as a no-cost update. However, the exciting prospect of hands-free driving on Australian roads remains unconfirmed.
A spokesperson for Subaru Australia stated, “At this stage, nothing has been confirmed for our market, however, we are always exploring opportunities to bring new and exciting technologies to Australia.” This leaves Australian motorists eager for the latest in automotive assistance technology in a state of anticipation.
The EyeSight Highway Hands-Free Assist operates on a similar principle to systems like General Motors’ Super Cruise and Ford’s BlueCruise, focusing its capabilities exclusively on highway environments. Unlike some other advanced driver-assistance systems, it does not claim full self-driving functionality.
How EyeSight Highway Hands-Free Assist Works:
- Activation: The system can be engaged when adaptive cruise control is active.
- Speed Capability: It functions at speeds up to 137km/h.
- Operational Environment: The technology is designed for use on “most” US highways that feature at least two lanes.
- System Indicator: A distinct blue icon within the digital instrument cluster clearly signals when the hands-free feature is operational.
Subaru itself describes the system as a “limited” hands-free assist, managing expectations while highlighting its sophisticated capabilities. Beyond simply allowing the driver to remove their hands from the wheel, the technology incorporates several other advanced functions:
- Active Lane Change Support: Facilitates automatic lane changes when deemed safe and appropriate.
- Emergency Stop Assist: Provides assistance in emergency braking scenarios.
- Highway Pre-Curve Speed Control: Adjusts vehicle speed proactively when approaching curves on highways.
Subaru’s commitment to developing this technology is underscored by the extensive testing undertaken by its engineers, who reportedly logged nearly 100,000 miles (161,000km) of hands-free driving during the development phase. This significant mileage reflects a thorough approach to refining the system’s performance and safety.
A crucial component of this new system is the second-generation DriverFocus monitoring technology. This advanced system is equipped with a wider-angle, higher-resolution camera and enhanced processing power to meticulously monitor the driver’s attentiveness. Its primary role is to ensure the driver remains focused on the road ahead, a critical safety measure for any hands-free driving system.
Driver Monitoring and Safety Interventions:
- Attentiveness Check: The DriverFocus system continuously assesses whether the driver is looking ahead.
- Disengagement Protocol: Should the system detect a lack of driver attention, it will automatically disengage.
- Driver Takeover: In such instances, the vehicle will prompt the driver to place their hands back on the steering wheel and resume manual control.
Subaru attributes the robustness of its advanced driver assist systems (ADAS), including EyeSight Highway Hands-Free Assist, to a synergistic combination of sophisticated technologies. These include:
- GPS Data: Precise location information.
- High-Definition 3D Maps: Detailed topographical and road layout data.
- Millimetre-Wave Radar: Advanced object detection and distance measurement.
- Cameras: Visual data acquisition for lane detection, object recognition, and more.
It’s worth noting that Australian-market Subaru Outbacks already boast a comprehensive suite of standard safety features. These include adaptive cruise control, lane centring, and an emergency driving stop system designed to safely pull the vehicle over if the driver becomes incapacitated. The Touring variant also includes active lane-change assist. However, even with these advanced systems engaged, Australian drivers are still required to keep their hands on the wheel at all times. The introduction of EyeSight Highway Hands-Free Assist in the US marks a significant step forward, and the automotive community in Australia will be eagerly awaiting news on whether this technology will eventually grace local roads.
Explore the Subaru Outback showroom for more information on the current Australian offerings.
