Toyota's Upcoming Major Innovation Isn't a Vehicle; It's a Drone That Perceives What You Cannot | Carscoops

      Several automakers have begun adopting drones, and Toyota is exploring this concept as well.

      The company is developing a drone intended to serve as a spotter for off-road driving. This project has reportedly been in development for some time, and the FAA has been informed about it. Although there are no current plans for production, the drone may appear as part of a concept vehicle.

      Picture yourself driving a Land Cruiser off-road and nearing the top of a steep hill. You instinctively check the Multi-Terrain Monitor for any hidden hazards, but you still can’t get a clear view of what lies ahead.

      This scenario occurs more frequently than you might think, but Toyota is addressing it with a high-tech solution involving a drone that could be launched to function as a spotter.

      Skyward Observation

      As per Reuters, Toyota has presented this idea to the Federal Aviation Administration, stating, “At times, operators may fly a drone above the treeline to capture videos used to orient themselves or evaluate the terrain.”

      Though it may seem a bit gimmicky, the automaker highlighted that offering views around and under the vehicle would enable drivers to “plan safer routes and enhance vehicle performance.”

      The company has been working on this concept for some time, though a spokesperson mentioned they are “constantly working on new technologies” and currently have “no product plans to announce.”

      This isn't particularly surprising, but it wouldn't be unexpected if the drone system eventually appeared in a concept vehicle.

      Conversely, many recent concepts have included drones. Earlier this summer, Renault showcased the Vision 4Rescue concept, which featured a roof-mounted unit for drone deployment.

      More recently, Policing Lab revealed an autonomous PUG (Police Unmanned Ground Patrol Partner) that also included a deployable drone from its roof.