SCOTTSDALE, AZ -- Lane departure warning systems are the next big feature for the high-volume automotive market, with models ranging from the Ford Focus to Mercedes-Benz C-Class coming equipped this year.

By 2016, annual LDW installations are projected to reach over 22 million, with a worldwide market value of more than $14.3 billion, ABI Research forecasts.

"We are seeing a number of significant new features that can share the core components," ABI writes. "One such feature is road sign recognition, which is beginning to appear on selected models, and initially focuses on speed limit signs. Another analyzes whether the driver is weaving within a lane. Also in place on some vehicles is a collision avoidance system that integrates camera image analysis with radar data for greater accuracy. Another new feature is advanced headlight control. The standard camera sensor idea would start at high-end vehicles, but as component costs come down with volume and production efficiencies, it will make sense to introduce this concept across all models."

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