Bosch, the German technology and engineering giant, unveiled a new connected smart camera system at CES – one geared specifically toward the ride-hailing sector.

Bosch says the system, called RideCare companion, provides monitoring and transparency for ride-hailing, enabling accountability for both driver and rider and delivering swift responses when there is an issue.

The device features a number of sensors for monitoring of shared rides with an interior and exterior camera providing visibility – especially at night – to both the interior and exterior of the vehicle. The system analyses the data enabling the detection of aspects such as the start and stop of a ride to enable better management of footage.

Accompanying the RideCare companion is a wireless SOS button in the vehicle that the driver can press to activate an emergency call to a Bosch service centre. As long as the vehicle is within range of mobile connectivity, trained emergency call operators are available live 24/7 and can look into the vehicle. They can access a camera view from the RideCare companion device to determine if emergency services need to be contacted.

All rides are monitored and uploaded to the cloud and a lighting element on the front of the RideCare device lets drivers and riders know the service is active. Data is handled securely from end-to-end, being encrypted on the device and stored in the cloud. Video data is documented with location and timestamp and can be used as proof in case of disputes.

Source: Motor Trader e-Magazine (February 2023)

9 February 2023