You've probably test driven a new GMC Terrain based on its award winning safety features and the multitude of technologically advanced gadgets that are standard. Well, fans of the crossover are in for an even bigger surprise. Next year's revamp, the 2012 GMC Terrain will be the first vehicle to implement a single-camera Crash Avoidance System.

Available for installation at Transwest Buick GMC Isuzu in Henderson, Colorado on all upcoming models, the $295 option lessens the complexity of other alert systems on luxury automobiles from auto makers. It is also the first of its kind - using only one camera, instead of multi-camera and laser identification warning system like other larger vehicles.

Video frames are analyzed, and can determine trajectory and time to collision if adjustments are not made. Brakes can also be primed to deliver optimal performance.

"Image processing is the key to this system's strength, relying on software number-crunching to pull off what other manufacturers bulk up on hardware to do," according to the GM press release. "For example, at night, the system looks for pairs of lights moving together to help spot other vehicles, and vehicle speed, accelerator and brake application are factored in to help the system figure out what the driver's intent is."¹

For such a low cost, added safety has never been easier to gain.

Source: ¹http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/02/gmc-terrain-to-get-novel-single-camera-collision-alert-system/