Mitsubishi Electric Automotive America Partners with Seeing Machines to Expand Guardian Generation 3 Driver Monitoring System Across the Americas
Mitsubishi Electric Automotive America, Inc. (MEAA), a recognized leader in advanced automotive electrical and electronic systems, has announced a strategic Referral Agreement with Seeing Machines Limited to promote and distribute Seeing Machines’ Guardian Generation 3 driver monitoring technology across the Americas. This collaboration marks a major step forward in enhancing road safety and mitigating driver-related risks by bringing a cutting-edge AI-powered driver monitoring system (DMS) to a broader market.
Guardian Generation 3 is a sophisticated aftermarket driver monitoring solution designed to detect and address driver distraction and fatigue, particularly in commercial vehicle applications. As road safety remains a critical concern, the integration of advanced driver monitoring technology has become essential in reducing accidents caused by human error. The agreement between MEAA and Seeing Machines aims to leverage MEAA’s established aftermarket distribution network and industry relationships to make Guardian Generation 3 more accessible to fleet operators, logistics providers, and commercial transport services across North and South America.
Strategic Significance of the Partnership
This partnership builds upon Electric Mobility Corporation’s strategic investment in Seeing Machines, completed in December 2024. The investment highlights Mitsubishi Electric’s commitment to advancing road safety technologies and its recognition of driver monitoring systems as a crucial component of modern vehicle safety. With MEAA’s vast reach and deep-rooted relationships within the transport and logistics sectors, this agreement is positioned to significantly accelerate the adoption of Guardian Generation 3.
According to Masahiro Kaji, President and CEO of MEAA, the collaboration with Seeing Machines aligns with MEAA’s core mission to provide state-of-the-art technologies that enhance the safety and efficiency of commercial vehicle operations. “Guardian Generation 3 is a game-changer in driver monitoring. By utilizing our well-established distribution network, we are excited to bring this solution to fleet operators across the Americas. We believe the more Guardian units there are on the roads, the safer they will be for everyone,” said Kaji.
How Guardian Generation 3 Works
Guardian Generation 3 is a state-of-the-art aftermarket driver monitoring system that uses advanced artificial intelligence and computer vision technology to track a driver’s eye movements, head positioning, and other behavioral indicators in real time. The system identifies signs of distraction, drowsiness, and micro-sleeps, providing immediate alerts to the driver through multiple channels:
- Visual and Audible Warnings – The system delivers on-screen alerts and sounds to notify drivers of detected risks.
- Haptic Feedback – A vibration unit installed under the driver’s seat provides physical alerts to regain attention.
- Live Monitoring and Intervention – Unlike continuously monitored in-cab cameras, Guardian Generation 3 records and transmits footage only when a safety event is detected. The captured data is then sent to a live monitoring center, where trained analysts assess the situation and, if necessary, contact fleet managers or designated personnel for intervention.
This targeted approach addresses privacy concerns while ensuring fleet operators receive critical risk mitigation data without unnecessary surveillance.
Impact on Fleet Safety and Operations
The introduction of Guardian Generation 3 to fleets across the Americas is expected to drive significant improvements in road safety and operational efficiency. Studies show that driver distraction and fatigue contribute to a substantial percentage of commercial vehicle accidents, leading to costly damages, injuries, and fatalities. By providing real-time monitoring and intervention, Guardian Generation 3 helps mitigate these risks and reduces the likelihood of collisions.
Key benefits for fleet operators include:
- Enhanced Driver Safety – Immediate alerts help drivers regain focus and avoid potentially dangerous situations.
- Reduction in Liability and Insurance Costs – By demonstrating proactive risk management, fleets can potentially lower insurance premiums and reduce liability claims.
- Improved Compliance with Emerging Regulations – With increasing regulatory requirements for driver monitoring systems, such as those mandated in the European Union, Guardian Generation 3 offers a proactive solution for fleets looking to stay ahead of safety compliance measures.
- Operational Efficiency and Cost Savings – Reducing accident rates leads to lower vehicle downtime, fewer repair costs, and overall improved fleet efficiency.
Industry Trends and Regulatory Considerations
The rise of driver monitoring technology is closely linked to evolving safety regulations worldwide. Several countries and regions, including the European Union, have implemented mandates requiring driver monitoring systems in commercial and passenger vehicles to combat drowsy and distracted driving. While such mandates are still developing in the Americas, industry experts predict that similar requirements will soon follow as authorities push for stricter road safety measures.
With this in mind, fleet operators across the Americas are increasingly looking for solutions that not only improve safety but also ensure compliance with future regulations. Guardian Generation 3 is well-positioned as a forward-thinking solution that addresses these concerns while providing measurable safety benefits.
Showcasing Guardian Generation 3 at Industry Events
To introduce Guardian Generation 3 to a broader audience and demonstrate its capabilities, MEAA will showcase the technology at the Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC) Annual Meeting, taking place from March 10-13 in Nashville, Tennessee. Attendees visiting MEAA’s booth (#938) will have the opportunity to see the system in action, interact with experts, and gain deeper insights into the benefits of integrating driver monitoring solutions into their fleets.
Industry events such as TMC provide an ideal platform for fleet managers, industry professionals, and regulatory bodies to explore emerging technologies that can enhance safety and efficiency. The presence of Guardian Generation 3 at such events reinforces MEAA’s commitment to promoting innovative solutions that make roads safer for all road users.
