Samsung projects driver's view on back of truck

Drivers who follow big trucks too closely often find their view of the road ahead blocked by the 18-wheeler's cargo doors. Now, one company says the solution for better safety might have been right under the tailgaters' noses all along.

Consumer electronics giant Samsung has built a prototype "clear truck" that uses its broad backside as a movie screen, displaying an unobstructed view of the road ahead.

The system works by mounting four large display screens on the truck's rear doors, connected by a wireless feed to digital cameras mounted in the cab. Thanks to the corporation's experience in manufacturing smartphones, cameras, and television sets, the system even works at night.

Samsung intends for the tool to help reduce accidents caused when trailing cars try to pass slower trucks on two-lane roads, but in addition to warning of oncoming traffic, the screen would also show obstacles such as animals crossing the road, swerving motorists, or sudden braking.

The original prototype is no longer on the road, but Samsung says it plans to roll out the system in global markets after working with regional governments to satisfy local permitting and safety-testing requirements.