Feb. 26, 2013—Toyota Motor Corp. recently presented international automotive supplier Continental with its Technology & Development Award in recognition of the company's development of radar-based sensors for a “rear cross traffic alert” (RCTA) system.

Toyota's annual Technology & Development Award recognizes suppliers whose innovations equip Toyota vehicles with the latest technologies. Continental received the award for the development of the RCTA, which builds on its existing technology for detecting vehicles in blind spots.

The RCTA system is based on two short-range radar sensors located behind the vehicle’s bumper to prevent accidents when drivers reverse out of parking spaces. The sensors detect cars, motorcycles and bicycles located within 35 meters of the vehicle, and alert drivers of imminent collisions by triggering warning sounds and lights inside the vehicle.

Continental said the new generation of Lexus ES models, introduced in 2012, were the first vehicles to be fitted with the RCTA system. Continental now supplies the sensors for more than 10 Toyota models.

"The award for our innovative, high-quality vehicle components and the confidence that has been placed in us makes us proud and is a further incentive," said Elmar Degenhart, CEO of Continental. "Our aim is to exceed our customers' expectations every day, which is why we are delighted that our efforts have been rewarded in this way.”

This is the first time that Continental has received an award directly from the Toyota. Continental is the only non-Japanese supplier to receive an award in this category this year.