German auto giant Volkswagen has applied for a patent which would allow their cars to connect via a blockchain network. The system would send out collision warnings to the drivers and inform of any nearby vehicles.
The invention is aiming to improve road safety through an interconnected blockchain system. Those in traffic would be able to communicate through their cars about dangers ahead or indicate a need for a maneuver such as an overtake or slowing down.
VW have explained how the process will work, claiming that cars would establish a contract to perform a maneuver, following which the action would be performed in accordance with the agreement. However, if a change of plan is needed the scenario will be renegotiated once again.
Earlier, VW has announced a partnership with a blockchain developer CarVertical, with the aim to explore how the technology can be utilized. Meanwhile, VW’s sister company Porsche has partnered up with IOTA to develop intelligent car systems. Ford, a U.S. based competitor has also become involved with the technology, having obtained a patent in March that would connect cars by using cryptocurrency exchanges to organize traffic.