Land Rover's 'invisible bonnet' technology

Land Rover's latest technology allows drivers to see through the bonnet to spot invisible hazards thanks to augmented reality

Land Rover Transparent Bonnet techonology - cameras record what's under the car and transmit the images to the driver's head-up display so he can avoid hazards
Cameras in the grille feed images to a head-up display in front of the driver, creating a 'see-through' view of the terrain through the bonnet and engine bay

With its new Transparent Bonnet virtual imaging concept, Land Rover says it will provide drivers with a new level of awareness of the terrain ahead, making the front of the car "virtually" invisible from inside the cabin.

The technology would enhance Land Rover's renowned ability off-road, showing the driver obstacles underneath and in front of the car, below the usual line of vision.

Transparent Bonnet is part of many new concept technologies to be showcased in Land Rover's Discovery Vision Concept car at the New York International Motor Show, which starts on April 16.

Land Rover Transparent Bonnet techonology - cameras record what's under the car and transmit the images to the driver's head-up display so he can avoid hazards

Cameras in the grille feed images to a head-up display in front of the driver, creating a "see-through" view of the terrain through the bonnet and engine bay.

Another benefit is the driver's ability to see the position of the front wheels, which is useful when climbing a steep incline or manoeuvring in a confined space.

Dr Wolfgang Epple, the director of research and technology for Jaguar Land Rover, said: "As our vehicles become more capable and autonomous off-road, we will ensure the driver has the confidence to allow the car to continue to progress, over any terrain. We are developing new technologies including the Transparent Bonnet to give drivers an augmented view of reality to help them tackle anything from the toughest off-road route to the tight confines of an urban car park.

"We believe the next 25 years will be the most exciting and dynamic the automotive industry has ever experienced. There will be huge strides in environmental innovation, in safety and capability."

The Discovery Vision Concept car being shown at New York is a design and technology showcase for Land Rover's vision for the next generation of premium SUVs, which will all be badged as Discoverys. This family will consist of the Discovery replacement itself, plus the new Freelander, which is due in 2015.

The launch of the new family of vehicles ties in with the original Discovery's 25th anniversary. Under Land Rover's plans it will sit in one of three distinct pillars, likely to be known as "leisure" alongside the new Defender ("dual purpose") and Range Rover ("luxury") models.