Mazda Adds Facial Recognition to CX-60 SUV

Mazda is installing a facial recognition system in its new CX-60 SUVs. The system does not come in the standard version of the vehicle, though it is available in the premium Homura and Takumi models, or as an optional add-on for those who purchase the Comfort Pack.

In terms of utility, Mazda’s system is able to store the faces of six registered individuals, and will automatically adjust various settings to suit the preferences of the person behind the wheel. The aptly named Driver Personalization System is connected to more than 250 different features, and can tweak everything from the temperature to the radio volume.

However, the seat adjustment feature may be the biggest selling point. According to Mazda, the Driver Personalization System takes advantage of an onboard camera that can gauge the position of the driver’s eyes within the vehicle. It can then adjust key components of the vehicle like the side mirrors and the steering wheel to meet the driver’s eyeline. In doing so, the system makes driving more comfortable, and could improve visibility to make things safer on the road.

The Personalization System covers the heads-up display in addition to the seat, mirrors, and steering wheel. It can also move the steering wheel and seat when someone opens the door to make it easier for drivers to get into and out of their vehicles. 

The CX-60 is a plug-in hybrid. Beyond the biometric features, Mazda customers can purchase a Convenience Pack that comes with a 360-degree camera that is mounted on the roof and can provide a top-down view of the vehicle. That feed can be brought up on a 12.3-inch center display to give drivers more situational awareness in tight spaces.

Mazda is not the first car manufacturer to use facial recognition to personalize the driving experience. Genesis offered a similar system in its recent GV60, and Tesla is reportedly planning to add the technology to its Cybertruck. LG Electronics, meanwhile, is working on a system that would use faces to enable biometric ignition.

Source: Pocket Lint

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March 18, 2022 – by Eric Weiss