No longer a blip on the screen

Luxury vehicles have used radar for years, but now systems are poised to enter the mainstream as safety demands rise and costs come down.

Luxury vehicles have used radar for several years, but the technology is rapidly heading toward the mainstream as regulators and automakers drive to improve safety. Prices are declining rapidly as suppliers strive to gain market share in what's expected to become a significant market.

Many factors are driving the increased interest in radar. Government regulators around the globe are tightening safety regulations. Insurance companies are also expected to offer discounts to consumers who show more willingness to pay for active safety systems than in the past.