!NEW! Opel and UR:BAN: Making urban driving safer and more efficient

• Cognitive assistance systems increase safety
• Networking of vehicles and infrastructure in urban traffic
• Urban-appropriate human-machine interaction

Smart intersection: Car-to-X information about the phasing of traffic lights and the traffic situation, sent to the car via Wi-Fi from the traffic management infrastructure and other vehicles, can help to generate recommendations for driving at intersections. Communicated to the driver via an intuitive human-machine-interface, this information can enable the driver to approach and cross the intersection comfortably, safely and energy-efficiently, preferably without stopping.

Driving a car in towns or cities means a coexistence of various road users and means of transport. It also means coping with a complex traffic situation and a high density of activities.

Expert teams at Opel developing innovative assistance systems to increase efficiency and safety in urban transport are participating in the UR:BAN research project (user oriented assistance systems and network management). The goal of the partly German government funded project is to provide drivers of passenger cars and commercial vehicles with forward-looking support, tailored and customized to driving in urban traffic. Thirty-one partners from the automotive industry, electronics and software companies, together with research institutes and local authorities, are developing intelligent assistance and cooperative traffic management systems.

The results and findings obtained so far were delivered today in the UR:BAN mid-term presentation at the Deutsche Zentrum für Luft - und Raumfahrt e.V. (DLR – German Center for Air and Space Travel) in Braunschweig, Germany.

The on-going, until 2016, UR:BAN research project, is divided into three pillars: "Cognitive Assistance", "Networked Traffic System", and "Human Factors in Traffic". "Opel is a partner in all three project pillars", explains Michael F. Ableson, Member of the Management Board and GM Europe Vice President, Engineering. "The focus is always on the human being. Teams of engineers, physicists and traffic psychologists are exploring assistance in difficult situations, the intelligent networking of vehicles and infrastructure, driver behavior, and the appropriate human-machine interaction for urban driving."

Cognitive Assistance - Collision avoidance by evading and braking

Especially in urban traffic, difficult situations can occur where the driver may not react in time. This is where the sub-project "collision avoidance by steering and braking" comes in. The Opel team is developing an advanced driver assistance system that takes advantage of the extra road space created by steering intervention to implement an additional situation-specific evasion. This system should help avoid collisions with vehicles and pedestrians in inner-city traffic.

At the mid-term presentation, Opel will show a demonstration vehicle equipped with advanced camera and radar, complemented by modified braking and steering systems, which allow an intervention in the control over the vehicle. Consideration of the driver’s reaction represents an important criterion for the optimization of the intervention strategy. In addition, Opel will integrate the latest findings of human-machine interaction and driver intention detection in the demonstration vehicle.

Networked Traffic System - Smart intersection

Information sent to the vehicle via Wi-Fi from the traffic management infrastructure and other vehicles can help to generate recommendations for driving at intersections, which an intuitive Human-Machine-Interaction  (HMI) can communicate to the driver. This could enable the driver to approach the intersection comfortably, safely and energy efficiently and preferably cross without stopping. This optimization and the further development of car-to-X technology specifically for driving in an urban environment is presented within the framework of UR:BAN.

HMI display in Opel Insignia - Optimized speed for approach he intersection comfortably, safely and energy efficiently and preferably cross without stopping.

In this part of the project, Opel is building on many years of experience in the field of car-to-X communication, as shown in projects such as the successfully completed SIM-TD field test. A networked traffic system and cooperative driving will enable the future step from the mere exchange of information to the joint action of all relevant actors.

Human Factors in Traffic – The appropriate HMI for urban driving

Within UR:BAN, an Opel team is working on improving technical systems. However, the information gained by the new technical systems can only improve driving and safety when drivers also know how to deal with the newly won information and how to react correctly. The focus of the sub-project “Human-Machine Interaction” (HMI) therefore is the way humans experience the behavior of driver assistance systems. In the foreground is interdisciplinary teamwork, with psychologists, engineers and physicists collaborating on the development and implementation of new technology elements to communicate with the driver.

Important questions addressed here include what information content do drivers need in order to follow a driving strategy; or what forms of representation motivate drivers to use a system; and how to avoid driver distraction. The experts test the influence of the assistance systems in various simulators and in real traffic, under controlled conditions.

The evaluation of the objective and subjective data provides the basis for the evaluation of system design and layout. Assistance systems that optimally support the user in his driving behavior are then integrated, in close cooperation with the other sub-projects.

Human Factors in Traffic - Behavior prediction and intention recognition

Understanding driver behavior can help to optimize the warning strategy of the man-machine interface of assistance systems. Opel’s target in the sub-project "behavior prediction and intention recognition" is therefore to develop an algorithm to detect driver intention using standard vehicle sensors. This allows a prediction of driver behavior in difficult driving situations.

The algorithm should identify, at an early stage, future avoidance maneuvers or emergency braking situations. Extensive testing and test data records show that, before maneuvers begin, specific behavior patterns and characteristics in the transverse and longitudinal guidance of the vehicle show up with all drivers. More than 50 volunteers completed a specific drive route under controlled conditions, where they encountered unexpected situations and the resultant maneuvers.

Based on the tests, the Opel team expects to predict whether the driver can mitigate an emergency situation through steering or braking. This information can help to adapt appropriate warning and intervention strategies beneficial for the sub-project "collision avoidance by evading and braking". If the system detects that the driver alone can mitigate a difficult situation, it can delay or suppress a driver warning.

!NEW! Opel Monza Concept: This Is Opel Tomorrow

• Visionary: Monza Concept gives outlook for Opel brand strategy at IAA
• Efficient: Perfect use of space, lightweight design, innovative powertrains
• Connected: Revolutionary infotainment with LED projection technology
• Inspiring: Monza Concept shows new interpretation of sculptural Opel design

A light, athletic look outside, unique projection technology inside combined with custom connectivity and modular design that enables sustainable propulsion systems par excellence – the Opel Monza Concept is stylish, ultra-modern efficiency on four wheels. It is the role-model for the next generation of Opel cars. The groundbreaking concept car makes its world premiere at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt from September 12 - 22 (press days: September 10 - 11) and shows what people can expect from Opel in the future.

“The Monza Concept represents the Opel car of tomorrow”, says Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann. “On one hand, it embodies everything that already characterizes Opel – German precision combined with innovative technologies wrapped in captivating design. In addition, it addresses the themes that will be the development-focus of the next generation of Opel cars: maximum connectivity and optimum efficiency.”

“Connectivity is demonstrated by a trailblazing LED projection technology for instrument and infotainment displays. Efficiency comes in many ways, with lightweight design, optimal use of interior space, and advanced powertrain technology. The Monza Concept is based on increasing electrification of the automobile in everyday driving, from range-extender to fuel cell. And as far as styling is concerned, we are expressing pure efficiency in a new, lean and athletic interpretation of our typical sculptural shapes. The Opel Monza Concept is nothing less than our vision of the automotive future.”

Lightness: Styling conveys athletic efficiency rather than pure muscle power

An Opel Monza already made its world premiere at the IAA back in 1977: it was a large coupé with a silky smooth-running six-cylinder engine. The Monza was in production until 1986 and has long since belonged to the elite circle of iconic cars. The new Monza Concept now follows in its wheel-tracks: The beautifully shaped hood with the distinctive center fold continues the tradition of the Monza front with the typical Opel crease. The large boomerang shaped air intakes in front of the wheel arches complement the elegant chrome bar that proudly holds the brand logo.

With the Opel Monza Concept, the designers in Mark Adams’ team introduce a new interpretation of the sculptural design that first went into production with the Opel Insignia. Selected distinctive lines, high-precision design and perfect sweeping contours remain the core of the evolving design philosophy called “Sculptural artistry meets German precision.” But a new, athletic allure demonstrates the car’s overall efficiency. “This is the next bold step along our journey into the future, but at the same time we show that we have established a consistent design in which people can build trust”, says Mark Adams, Head of Opel Design.

The sculptural surfaces of the 4.69 meter-long, four seat Opel Monza Concept are modeled after ocean waves lapping on the shore. These flowing surfaces give a look of lightness, dramatically underlined by the side-sills that taper off in front of the rear wheel arches. This unique styling element is inspired by the lean physique and slim waist of a greyhound dog, running as if on tip-toes with powerful elegance. The design of the Opel Monza Concept’s body sides enables easy entry and egress for front and rear-seat passengers, while underscoring the prominent, sporty rear wheel arches, which share the same width as the front.

The Opel Monza Concept’s roof line is particularly sophisticated – at first it runs in a semicircular form like a classic coupé’s, but then just before reaching the tailgate it sweeps slightly upwards. In spite of its sporty look and flat silhouette with a height of just 1.31 meters, there is neither loss of space in the luggage compartment – 500 liters in volume – nor constrained headroom for the passengers. This is due to the fact that the whole cockpit structure is around 15 centimeters lower than in conventional models. Actually, the 

Opel Monza Concept offers the same airy passenger compartment as a mid-size car.

The expansive doors provide maximum functionality with spectacular views when opening. They swing up like the outstretched wings of a condor and offer an unobstructed view of the spacious, open passenger cabin (or the surroundings from the inside) thanks to the absence of a B-pillar.

Connectivity: Efficient and well-connected into the automotive future

Efficiency and connectivity are the main focus of development in focus for next generation of Opel models. The Opel Monza Concept offers a fascinating preview of these developments. Once behind the wheel, the Opel Monza Concept whisks you away into a completely new and unique world of instruments and infotainment. The original Opel Monza was also way ahead of its time 35 years ago with a digital display in the cockpit.

The Opel Monza Concept continues innovating with state-of-the-art LED projection technology. Drivers no longer find the conventional individual, separate monitors that display different information; instead, they face a wide, sculpted dashboard that sweeps from door to door, and is used as a single projection surface. Information and decorative elements are displayed on the surface, which the driver can customize according to his needs, taste or mood. A total of 18 LED projectors create a continuous, adaptable multi-functional display. This is a world premiere in an automobile. Already established in the events arena, this technology has caused a sensation at major occasions such as Queen Elizabeth’s Jubilee, and Opel designers were first to think of implementing it in a passenger car. The 3D graphics are impressive, and reflect all important functions from precise vehicle and driver information to internet and communication options as well as decorative elements. Both the area displaying information and the background can be individually configured, and operation is via voice control and steering wheel controls.

Efficiency and clarity are also priorities here: when it came to how the displays present information, Opel engineers focused on the best and most personal way to make relevant data available to the driver. The approach was “simplifying the multitude” and so details on the car, the navigation and the smartphone settings and connection only appear when necessary or desired. So drivers can use a wide range of information without being overwhelmed by text or images. This also makes the Monza Concept a model of future HMI (Human-Machine-Interface) systems, as its interior design is based on latest research findings in this field.

This also applies to the comprehensive smartphone connectivity in the Opel Monza Concept. With three worlds of connectivity – called ME, US and ALL – drivers can focus solely on their driving experience, or get in touch with friends and family or even connect to the whole internet community. With ME the infotainment system virtually disconnects the drivers’ smartphone and prioritizes the information relevant for the driving experience. US enables the passengers of the Opel Monza Concept to connect with a group of selected people such as friends and family members: these can log-in to the car’s infotainment system with their own communication device and exchange information, music and images, chat and make appointments, etc. ALL goes beyond US. It allows the driver and virtually the whole outside world to connect. Drivers can for example spontaneously share their planned route online over a tablet or smartphone so that people can catch a ride with them along the way – enabling a new kind of instant car-sharing. With this trailblazing infotainment and connectivity technology, the Monza Concept shows how far ahead Opel designers and engineers are thinking, so that the next generation of cars make their contribution to a harmonious, connected society

The trendsetting sensor and connectivity technology in the Monza Concept has even more to offer: it gives a preview of the advancements in “Car-to-Car” and “Car-to-X” systems – prerequisites for future autonomous driving and areas in which the research department at Opel is already intensively working. By comprehensively connecting road users, intercommunication can be enhanced, as can safety, because dangerous traffic situations are registered earlier and more accurately than before.

Flexibility: Modular design for powertrain-diversity

The Monza Concept is based on a modular design to allow highest-possible flexibility when selecting a propulsion system. A variety of sustainable powertrains based on increasing electrification of the automobile are conceivable. For the Monza Concept to be displayed at the Frankfurt show, engineers conceived an electric drive with a CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) range extender – a further development of the Ampera’s pioneering technology. The new-generation three-cylinder 1.0 SIDI turbo – which also makes its premiere at the IAA – takes over the task as range extender. But it does so with natural gas instead of gasoline, further improving the car’s CO₂ footprint. With its visionary approach, Opel continues to combine the potential of electric propulsion with the benefits of the internal combustion engine.

“We have a clear vision of how Opel cars will be in the future, and we have a clear strategy of how we will achieve this goal. The Opel Monza Concept gives this strategy an unmistakable identity,” says Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann. “It embodies what our customers can expect from us within the next years; not only in terms of design, but also in terms of efficiency and connectivity between drivers and the internet community. So it already anticipates future everyday automotive life, and serves as an important source of inspiration on the road to that destination – and not just for Opel.”

Opel leads fleet testing of SimTD research project

• Sim^TD: One of the world’s largest Car-to-X field tests starting in Hesse
• Milestone for implementation of vehicle communication
• Road weather warning function: Research for increased traffic safety
  
  
  

  The enhancement of individual mobility towards even more safety, efficiency and environmental compatibility is one of the major challenges facing society. In the process, connecting automotive road users with each other (Car-to-Car) and with their environment (Car-to-X) is becoming increasingly important. The start of the test phase of the Sim^TD project (“Safe Intelligent Mobility – Test Field Germany”) in Hesse is a milestone towards the implementation of this type of vehicle communication.
  
  “The results of the joint Sim^TD project will set the trend for all of Europe. With the launch of the Sim^TD pilot project, one of the largest global field tests in Car-to-X communication is now beginning,” says Dr. Burkhard Milke, Opel Director Electric/Electronic Engineering adding, “Cars learn to exchange data according to standardized rules. They also learn to process the transmitted data in such a way that they can quickly and reliably filter and display information important to the driver. In the past Opel was able to lay the foundations for Car-to-X technologies in projects such as DIAMANT. These findings will be taken into account when we now take on the baton from Continental after successful test preparations and assume leadership of the fleet testing within Sim^TD.
  
  After several years of intensive preparation, the test phase will begin in the greater Frankfurt am Main area with a fleet of 120 vehicles from German car makers. The field test will last until the end of the year and include various studies on Car-to-Car technology and its impact on increasing traffic safety and efficiency. Around 450 test drivers will take part. During the test drives, millions of communication events will be generated in order to exchange data. Within the test fleet, 20 Insignia Sports Tourers equipped with state-of-the art equipment for vehicle communication are participating.
  
  
  The data compiled from the tests will be analyzed in close consultation with the University of Würzburg and the Technical University of Munich, whereby the universities will also ensure a good statistical cross section of drivers and test routes. The latter were chosen in close cooperation with the city of Frankfurt am Main and Hessen Mobil. The home base for all field test vehicles is a test fleet base on an industrial compound in Frankfurt Höchst. The fleet is controlled by the Drive Center near the Hessian Traffic Control Center.
  
  
  At the top of the wish list: Road weather warning
  Among the many aspects tested in the context of Sim^TD, the development of the road weather warning function, for which Opel is responsible, plays  a central  role. According to studies, this information is at the top of drivers’ wish list. Road weather warnings combine real time data on road conditions and the weather report with warnings about hazardous weather conditions such as heavy rain, fog or cross wind. This data is of great added value to drivers and lead to a significant increase in traffic safety.
  
  
  Four road weather information stations located in the field test vicinity, which are already providing detailed information, for example for road gritting trucks, lay the foundations for the test. The critical parameters being monitored are the dew point and road surface temperature. Based on this data, site-specific warnings are generated and displayed in the vehicles. The HMI (Human-Machine-Interface) used by all partners for the field test was developed by DFKI, the German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence.  
  
  

  The Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology (BMWi), the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) and the Federal Ministry of Transport, Building and Urban Development (BMVBS) provide funding for sim^TD, because this consortium has the potential to promote a new dimension of foresighted driving, traffic control, and accident avoidance. The ministries are convinced that a commonly agreed standard is essential for the commercial deployment of this pace-making technology. sim^TD is a joint project initiated by leading German automakers, automotive suppliers, communication companies and research institutes, together with assistance from the public sector.

  
  

  Project partners are as follows: Adam Opel AG, AUDI AG, BMW AG, BMW Forschung und Technik GmbH, Daimler AG, Ford Forschungszentrum Aachen GmbH, Volkswagen AG, Robert Bosch GmbH, Continental, Deutsche Telekom AG, Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Förderung der angewandten Forschung e.V., Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Künstliche Intelligenz GmbH (DFKI), Technische Universität Berlin, Technische Universität München, Hochschule für Technik und Wirtschaft des Saarlandes, Universität Würzburg, Hessisches Landesamt für Straßen- und Verkehrswesen, Stadt Frankfurt am Main. The project is promoted and supported by the German Federal Ministries of Economics and Technology (BMWi), Education and Research (BMBF), Transport, Building and Urban Development (BMVBS), and also by the federal state of Hesse, the German Association of the Automotive Industry and the Car 2 Car Communication Consortium. BMWi, BMBF and BMVBS support simTD with approximately 40 million euros, the other project partners contributes approximately 31 million euros.
  
  
  Further information on the project can be found at http://www.simTD.de
  
  This work was funded within the project Sim^TD by the German Federal Ministries of Economics and Technology as well as Education and Research, and supported by the Federal Ministry of Transport, Building and Urban Development.