Smart Rearview Mirror wins 2014 Traffic Safety Achievement Award

Last week, Nissan introduced the Smart Rearview Mirror concept at the New York International Auto Show (NAIAS) to a stunned crowd. The mirror system uses a camera to allow an image of the rear view (as if the mirror were, well, mirroring) to be displayed, even when things in the car of lighting outside of it prevents a good view with a traditional reflection.

The system is designed to both add the safety and convenience of a camera-enabled rear-view embedded into the traditional rear-view mirror and circumvent national laws which require a reflective mirror be positioned there and used in that way (read about that here).

Now the cool mirror, which will debut on select Nissan Rogue vehicles in Japan later this year, has been recognized for its safety innovation by the World Traffic Safety Symposium at the New York Auto Show. The mirror received the 2014 Traffic Safety Achievement Award, a recognition that is given every year to those who help create a safer environment for motorists and pedestrians through innovative technology or ideas.

"Safety is a top priority for Nissan, and our products continue to evolve to meet regulations and consumer expectations," said Pierre Loing, vice president, Product Planning, Nissan North America, Inc. "By improving rearward visibility, we hope Smart Rearview Mirror will help make roads safer with potential ancillary benefits for vehicle design."

Loing also says that after its initial rollout in Japan, the Smart Rearview Mirror will be offered in select vehicles globally in the near-future.