2020 Volkswagen Local Hazard Warning

The latest communication technologies allow vehicles to receive ‘advance warning’ of potential hazards. For example, a car that has broken down in the middle of the highway might signal its presence to approaching vehicles (car-to-car communication); or traffic lights might alert vehicles of their state (red, green etc) to help when visibility is poor or to alert a distracted driver (car to infrastructure communication). The two types of communication are collectively known as V2x technologies – vehicle to infrastructure and/or other vehicles. Different communication strategies may be used – the emerging 5g network, for example, or a more direct but shorter-range radio transmission. Either way, the technology offers the possibility for cars to warn their drivers of approaching dangers and even to intervene to help avoid a collision.