Mitsubishi is working on navigation that answers questions about route while driving

Automaker Mitsubishi Electric is working on a navigation system that can answer questions while driving. For example, motorists can ask ‘this exit or the next?’, after which the system answers.

The system monitors the eyes and lips of motorists to see if users are asking the question of the navigation, reports The Drive based on a preview of the technology. For example, the system can ignore questions from other passengers, such as children asking how long it will take from the back seat.

In addition to the talking navigation, Mitsubishi demonstrated side-facing hood cameras. For example, they can register whether the road is clear when the driver comes out of a tight street or out of a garage. The software turns on the monitors in front of the cameras when users make eye movements that indicate that the camera image is needed.

Mitsubishi Electric is developing the techniques as part of its Maisart project. In it, the automaker is trying to create technology that helps human drivers while driving. Mitsubishi Electric wants to sell Maisart techniques to other automakers instead of just putting them in Mitsubishi Motors’ own cars.

Photo: The Drive