An exciting convergence of motorsports technology and public safety is underway, as innovations from Pratt Miller Motorsports, the force behind Corvette Racing, are being used to enhance first responder safety. At CES 2025, Oshkosh, a prominent industrial truck maker, demonstrated how they're integrating racing-derived technology to help prevent accidents involving emergency vehicles. This move to apply Corvette Racing's advanced monitoring systems to everyday roads has the potential to save countless lives.
Safety is Key
Although first responders are relied upon to save others in accidents, they often face danger themselves. Sadly, 251 first responders lost their lives in vehicle-related accidents between 2019 and 2023. To address this, Oshkosh developed the Collision Avoidance Mitigation System (CAMS), leveraging technology initially developed by Pratt Miller Motorsports for the Corvette Racing program.
Race-Inspired Safety Systems
The technology behind this safety system uses rear-facing cameras and radar to track the movement and speed of vehicles from behind. In racing, this system provides drivers with crucial data such as the speed of approaching vehicles, projected paths, and positioning on the track. Now, that same technology is being adapted to enhance the safety of emergency vehicles stationed at accident sites.
CAMS for First Responder Protection
CAMS includes one or two camera and radar units per vehicle, working independently from the vehicle's existing sensors. Artificial intelligence processes data to detect potential dangers and issues, such as warnings through lights, sounds, horns, and even haptic feedback through wearables—essential in noisy accident scenes. Expected to launch in 2026, the system is scalable and can be implemented on various vehicles, such as snowplows, tow trucks, and fire trucks.
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