Staying ahead of the game in a technologically dynamic industry is no easy feat. Yet Nissan seems to be operating with one foot constantly out the door and one eye perpetually peering into the future. The automaker's latest undertaking comes in the form of "Brain Machine Interface" (BMI) research, a technology that could one day enable vehicles like the Nissan Altima to read your mind.

In collaboration with École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), a Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Nissan will be conducting pioneering work in the BMI field. Still in the early stages of development, the system currently has the ability to allow disabled users to operate their wheelchairs solely using thought transference. Nissan and EPFL hope to adapt the technology to vehicles and drivers in the near future.

How would it work? An automotive Brain Machine Index would essentially function as a third-party translator between the driver's brain and the road. By measuring brain activity, analyzing eye movement patterns and scanning the surrounding environment, it could predict the driver's next move and ensure its safe execution. The research alliance is also working on developing a statistically based system that could evaluate a driver's cognitive state relevant to the road.

"Imagine you see a left turn coming up and you want to take it. The car could then prepare itself for the maneuver, selecting the correct speed and road positioning before completing the turn,"¹ described Motor Authority.

Much of the brain remains a mystery to mankind so connecting the complex operation of a vehicle to thought pattern may seem a bit risky. However, Nissan cannot ignore the potential of technology like BMI to create an entire new demographic of drivers. Those in the Clarksville area and beyond who are currently unable to drive due to a disability would have the ability to own and operate a car. The implementation of this new system could be life-changing.

For now, Nissan owners will have to keep both hands on the wheel while manually driving their new Nissan model. But Mathews Nissan at 185 Highway 76 Clarksville, TN is dedicated to informing you of any updates as the automaker progresses with telepathic technology, so be sure to stay tuned. Also, feel free to contact us with any Nissan-related questions you may have!

Source: ¹http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1066690_nissan-working-on-mind-reading-technology-for-cars