Volkswagen’s Emergency Assist Steers the Car and Alerts Authorities When Drivers Fall Asleep or Faint [Video]

Volkswagen’s innovative Emergency Assist system offers new hope in critical and unexpected driving scenarios.

For drivers who fall asleep at the wheel or experience a sudden medical emergency that leaves them incapacitated, VW’s latest technology is designed to step in, ensuring the driver’s and others’ safety on the road. Here’s how it works: If the system detects no input from the steering wheel for over 20 seconds, it will issue a gentle reminder via the gauge cluster to prompt the driver to take control. Should the driver remain unresponsive, the system escalates its response by applying small jolts through the brakes and seatbelt pre-tensioners to try and rouse the driver.

If there’s still no response, Emergency Assist takes over. The car uses its advanced sensors to pull over safely, activating hazard lights and honking to alert surrounding drivers. In cases where lane changes are necessary to reach the shoulder, the vehicle makes these adjustments autonomously. Emergency services are notified, doors unlock, and the dome lights illuminate, enabling swift access in urgent situations.

The automotive company shared a video on social media demonstrating how this entire process kicks in, and based on the comments, consumers are optimistic about this life-saving innovation.

Volkswagen’s Emergency Assist feature is available on many of the brand’s newer models and is part of their “IQ.DRIVE” suite of driver assistance technologies.