Volvo’s Animal Detection technology that can prevent collisions with large animals is to be developed further to detect smaller animals including dogs and cats.

The technology, which is designed to help the driver avoid accidents or reduce the speed of impact, will be introduced after the all-new XC90 arrives by the end of 2014. It is one of an array of new technologies the car will benefit from.

One innovation that stands out above the rest is Volvo’s Animal Detection technology.

Speaking to Motortrades Insight, a senior Volvo spokesman said it is designed to prevent collisions with large animals, including Moose, horses and deer – fully applying the brakes to come to an emergency stop within 50 metres of the animal.

He said Volvo is developing the technology further so that in the long-term it will be able to detect medium sized animals including dogs and cats. But Volvo doubts it will be able to develop the technology to prevent collisions with smaller animals including hedgehogs and pigeons. 

If the car is driving at 70mph, for example, it will take a longer distance to stop, but at a lower speed, there is a much higher likelihood that the animal will sustain less severe injuries and the occupants of the car will not be hurt. 

Collision mitigation for animals is a world first that detects and automatically brakes for animals both in daylight and in the dark. 

“We are introducing the first Volvos with autonomous steering to avoid accidents and make driving more comfortable,” explained Thomas Broberg, Senior Safety Advisor Volvo Car Group.

The all-new XC90 will be crammed full of other innovations, including the world’s first ‘Pedestrian Detection’ system which works at night. It will see brakes automatically applied if it detects pedestrians walking into the road. The technology also includes detection and auto brake for other vehicles and cyclists.

Volvo is also introducing a feature that detects if the car is about to drive off the road and automatically applies steering torque to bring the vehicle back on track. Being able to monitor where the physical road ends is a major step forward for Volvo. This means that the technology also works on roads without side markings.

It will also incorporate Adaptive Cruise Control with steer assist – a technology that helps the driver stay in the lane and follow the rhythm of the traffic. The new system automatically follows the vehicle ahead.