Daimler AG bestows MEKRA Lang with Supplier Award in Innovation for its Digital VisionSystem mirror technology

RIDGEWAY, S.C., April 11, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- MEKRA Lang, the leading manufacturer of rearview vision systems for commercial vehicles, has received a 2018 Daimler Supplier Award in the innovation category for its digital rearview mirrors technology, Digital VisionSystem, available on the Mercedes-Benz Actros.

Daimler's new Mercedes-Benz Actros is the first series production truck in the world to drive "mirrorless," employing the MEKRA Lang Digital VisionSystem to replace the conventional rearview mirror setup. Designed to improve safety on the road, it increases the driver's field of vision by securing a real-time continuous image that alerts the driver when a deviation is detected.

"Our new Actros is the first series production Mercedes-Benz in the world to have digital rearview mirrors. Elegant, efficient and safe: MEKRA Lang pushed technology to the next level," said Dr. Marcus Schoenenberg, Vice President Global Procurement Trucks & Buses, Daimler AG.

MEKRA Lang's new technology is not only functional but effective with aerodynamically optimized camera wings to increase airflow and reduce fuel consumption. Utilizing its expertise in camera and mirror technology, the company took a groundbreaking approach to optics and sensor placement – achieving mandatory fields of vision with just one lens. The Digital VisionSystem then displays the field of vision in a variety of views, covering the comprehensive spectrum of driving situations and setting a new vision standard for commercial vehicles.

"Our Digital VisionSystem is the first digital rearview mirror technology to be driven on the road out of a series truck production, replacing mirrors completely and it is not only functional but incredibly effective and reliable," said Dr. Werner Lang, President, MEKRA Lang. "We are honored to be leading the charge in camera and mirror vision systems, and look forward to announcing additional applications of this innovation in other parts of the world soon."

In order to effectively deliver a clear image both day and night, even with glare from the sun or headlights, the Digital VisionSystem's camera generates video images with a contrast ratio of more than 50,000:1. The system monitors itself around the clock, ensuring a reliable performance by initiating regular hardware-integrated system checks that interact with the software. It features real-time playback for optimal safety by delivering a latency of less than 200 ms. This technology is certified by TÜV Rheinland, the most advanced accredited third party in Germany in addition meeting functional safety according to ISO 26262.

Every year, Daimler presents the Daimler Supplier Award to honor 10 suppliers who excel in quality, partnership and innovation in the presence of hundreds of strategic partners and suppliers from over 30 nations. The 11^th annual Daimler Supplier Awards were presented at the Carl Benz-Arena in Stuttgart, Germany on Feb. 20, 2019. Managing Director Dr. Werner Lang received the award on behalf of MEKRA Lang from Dr. Marcus Schoenenberg, Vice President of Global Procurement Trucks & Buses, Daimler AG.

The MEKRA Lang Digital VisionSystem (video) also received the CES 2019 Innovation Award in the category 'Vehicle Intelligence and Self-Driving Technology.' In addition, MEKRA Lang is the first company to earn the Supplier Award from Daimler for the third time (2012: 'Performance' category; 2008: 'Exterior' category)

About MEKRA Lang

MEKRA Lang GmbH & Co. KG is the leading manufacturer of mirror systems for commercial vehicles as well as specialized camera monitor systems for automotive applications worldwide. As an innovative and recognized expert for indirect vision, we work together with all major commercial vehicle manufacturers to ensure more safety on the roads. At our 21 locations in 13 countries we employ a total workforce of about 2930 with 1480 employees in Ergersheim/ Central Franconia.

SOURCE MEKRA Lang Group