Enough space in front, enough in the back? Where’s the curb? When every inch counts in parking and maneuvering, seeing is usually better than hearing. The Bosch multi-camera system supports drivers by providing precisely that view of the vehicle’s surroundings that will let them maneuver and park safely and conveniently. Many vehicles already have a touchscreen display installed, which drivers can use to select from various modes and perspectives. They can look in front of the hood or behind the trunk, along the vehicle’s sides or with a bird’s-eye view from above. Whenever the driver selects a new perspective, the camera virtually pans around the car to the new vantage point. As a result, areas around the car that are difficult or even impossible to see are a thing of the past. Drivers can better orient themselves and see even small obstacles.

The truly ingenious part is in the display, which merges the real and virtual worlds. Drivers can view the vehicle as a true-to-life 3D model, complete with detailed design features such as curves and edges. Steering actions, the turning of the wheels, and the opening of doors or the tailgate are also displayed as animated graphics. The car’s immediate environment, however, appears live in the form of real-time images.