Driving in low-light conditions poses a significant risk of accidents due to the biological limitations of the human eye, which sees poorly in such environments. However, there are devices designed to minimize the effects of low light, such as headlights that, through artificial illumination, make the road and objects more visible. There are also more technologically advanced solutions that, while not replacing regular lighting, further enhance the driver's field of vision. These include infrared and thermal sensor cameras, which enable night vision.

There are two types of technology used in these systems: infrared and thermal cameras, which help detect objects, people, and animals up to 160 meters away.

Infrared cameras use a camera with standard sensors, similar to those used in everyday life. However, the filter that blocks naturally emitted infrared light is removed, and infrared illuminators (like those seen around the lens on home security cameras) are added to increase the camera's ability to detect objects.

Thermal cameras use sensors that detect thermal radiation, such as radio waves, X-rays, infrared light, and others.

In 2000, Cadillac was the first automaker to use a night vision system in a mass-produced vehicle. The Cadillac Deville used a thermal camera positioned in the front grille and projected images onto the car's windshield, a major innovation for the time.

Toyota was the first automaker to apply infrared technology to a mass-produced vehicle in 2002 with the Toyota Landcruiser Cygnus and Lexus LX470 (the brand's luxury division).

Later, other automakers developed and incorporated the technology. Today it is offered in the most luxurious models of brands such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Cadillac, Lexus, Toyota, Honda, Audi, among others.

This video shows the system in operation:

The technology is currently only found in luxury vehicles and is rare in the country, but over time, like other cutting-edge systems in the automotive industry, the product should become more popular and be offered in cheaper cars.

But for those who are clamoring for such a system, it is possible to buy and install it independently in the car, just as is done with reversing cameras and sensors. It is also worth noting that this is an auxiliary system and should never be used as the primary road display device, especially in vehicles that project the image onto the dashboard.