A first attempt in Australia with connected vehicles will enable cars to communicate with other vehicles, public transport and road infrastructure, paving the way for driverless cars.
Two high-tech Lexus RX hybrids specially modified with short-range and cellular equipment can receive messages from public transport, intersections, emergency vehicles and other elements as part of the test.
The automaker is working with dozen of government, transportation and technology companies on the Australian Integrated Multimodal EcoSystem technology trial in Carlton, Victoria.
Drivers are instructed to make way for a tram, to prepare for a stop at a red light, or to avoid a one-way street.
It even has the potential to instruct drivers with right of way not to enter an intersection if an emergency vehicle is approaching quickly.
As the Herald Sun revealed in June, these warnings are vital for autonomous cars to function in complex urban environments.
Lexus said the technology could be extended to pedestrian crossings and other areas with vulnerable road users.
The trial will take place in an area of six square kilometers in Carlton, Fitzroy and Collingwood, which is bordered by Victoria Parade, Hoddle Street, Alexandra Parade and Lygon Street.
Professor Majid Sarvi, transportation technology expert and AIMES director, said the test brought connected vehicles closer to reality.
“Ultimately, this research aims to improve transport network connectivity and increase safety for all road users,” he said.
“With these connected Lexus vehicles, we hope to provide real evidence to put Australia at the forefront of global smart city technologies.”
Lexus local chief executive Scott Thompson said the brand had more in store for Australia.
“Inventive technology and the use of innovation are at the core of Lexus DNA and we are committed to delivering next generation road safety results,” he said.
“Lexus would like to thank the Victoria and Queensland governments and the University of Melbourne for their partnership in developing important road safety research.”
