Mazda revealed it will bring a slew of safety technologies to its 2014 Mazda6/Atenza mid-size sedan collectively known as i-ACTIVSENSE. The technologies will help drivers recognize hazards, avoid collisions, and reduce the severity of accidents.
Just like SkyActiv covers Mazda's lightweight technologies and general efficiencies built into the platforms of its cars, so too does i-ACTIVSENSE cover all the various safety systems. The Mazda6 will use milliwave radars and cameras to aid drivers.
The technologies will include Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC) that will adjust the car's speed based on any traffic ahead of it within a set speed range while maintaining a safe following distance.
The Forward Obstruction Warning system will alert the driver of any risk of collision by detecting vehicles in front of the car. A Lane Departure Warning System will warn drivers when they leave their lane of travel without signaling first. Another system, the Rear Vehicle Monitoring system will detect cars in the blind spots on either side and alert the driver of their presence.
The High-Beam Control System (HBCS) will detect oncoming vehicles and switch the headlights to the low beam in order not to temporarily blind oncoming drivers. An Adaptive Front Lighting system will turn the lights in relation to steering wheel angle to help drivers see through curves.
The Smart Brake Support system will apply brakes on its own when the system detects that a frontal impact in imminent when traveling at speeds of over 9mph. Smart City Brake Support (SCBS) differs in that it can completely stop the car and works in a range of 2.5- to 19mph speeds. Finally, automatic-transmission cars will cut engine power when a driver applies too much throttle while there is a detected obstacle in front of the car.
While all Japanese Atenzas will get the full suite of i-ACTIVSENSE technologies, those in other markets will offer the system as an option.
