Bosch Launches Smaller, Lighter, More Capable Vehicle Parking Aid

FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich., Sept. 16, 2004: Bosch recently introduced an improved parking aid to better assist drivers in vehicle maneuvering. The smaller, lighter, more capable system uses ultrasonic sensors to make parking easier and increase pedestrian and obstacle protection.

Using transmitted ultrasonic signals, Bosch's parking aid system calculates the distance between the vehicle and nearby obstacles. Depending on the system and vehicle application, the parking aid conveys information about the current surroundings behind, in front and on either side of the vehicle. The relevant information is transmitted either acoustically or visually, allowing the driver to avoid situations that can cause injuries to pedestrians or damage to vehicles or other objects.

"According to recent research, the parking aid is one of several safety and convenience features consumers are interested in and willing to pay for," said Reiner Emig, senior vice president, electronic systems. "Bosch's experience in driver assistance technology, coupled with our extensive investment in research and development, allows us to provide features the end consumer wants and needs for a safe driving experience."

The core component of Bosch's parking aid -- the ultrasonic sensor -- has been reduced in size by a third to approximately 1.15 inches. The decreased size makes the sensor easier to install and provides additional bumper space. Ultimately, this means greater soft impact zones and, therefore, improved pedestrian and obstacle protection. Another improved feature is the sensor's range, which has doubled to 10 feet. The parking aid now detects obstacles even earlier allowing for greater convenience during difficult maneuvers.

Approximately five percent of all newly registered vehicles in the United States are currently equipped with a parking aid.

The system's modular platform is designed to accommodate future advancements. Bosch is currently developing extensions of the parking aid including a measurement feature that calculates the length of a parking space and notifies the driver whether the parking space is large enough for the vehicle. Future generations will allow the system to take over steering, engine control and braking functions, becoming a semiautonomous parking assistant.

One of the largest North American automotive suppliers, Bosch develops, manufactures and supplies precision components and systems -- including body electronics, chassis and powertrain products -- for vehicle manufacturers worldwide.

In North America, the Bosch Group manufactures and markets automotive original equipment and aftermarket products, industrial automation and mobile products, power tools and accessories, security technology, packaging equipment and household appliances. Bosch employs more than 23,300 associates in more than 80 facilities throughout North America and reported sales of $6.6 billion in 2003. For more information, visit http://www.boschusa.com/ .