Siemens VDO is developing a wrong-way driving warning system that leverages navigation and camera-based traffic sign recognition technology to detect and alert drivers before they proceed in the wrong direction, against traffic. Various warning strategies are possible, including a signal tone, a control lamp in the instrument panel, a warning notice on the head-up display, or tactile warning signals.
The Siemens system uses a forward-looking camera mounted behind the interior rear view mirror. The camera recognizes traffic signs displaying the current speed limit and in Germany will also recognize the white bar on the red background of German Sign 267 ("Do Not Enter"). The navigation system has information regarding the type of road and the direction in which the vehicle is currently moving. The warning system detects when a driver attempts to turn in the wrong direction on freeway approaches, at rest stops, in parking lots, at freeway junctions and on one-way streets. The electronic warning leads the driver back to the correct lane before it is too late.