Land Rover boffins have been busy coming up with a clever camera system that makes trailers appear completely transparent when you look in the rear-view mirror.

The idea is that this removes all the usual blind spots and helps drivers perform safer overtaking and reversing manoeuvres.

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At the moment the system is at the prototype stage, but when it does go on sale – which is likely to be early next year – it will only be available on top-end Range Rover models.

To achieve the see-through effect, Land Rover has combined the video feeds from the Range Rover’s existing all-round video camera system with an additional feed from a wirelesss camera mounted on the back of the trailer.

By using some clever software, these video images are then blended and displayed in the rear-view mirror so that the centre part of the trailer disappears.

Helpfully, the outside of the trailer stays visible to stop drivers forgetting they’re dragging something behind them.

The system also uses high-quality video to keep the image as true to real life as possible,” says Dr Wolfgang Epple, from Land Rover’s research and technology division. 

“This means the driver would have exactly the right information to make safe and effective decisions when driving or manoeuvring, making towing safer and less stressful.”

The camera mounted on the rear of the trailer can also be used for reversing and has guidance lines to help make the job easier.

Cargo monitoring

Land Rover has also been working on a cargo monitoring system that makes sure trailers are properly loaded and alerts the driver if anything shifts during transport.

The main component is a pressure-sensitive floor mat that detects the weight and location of the cargo.

This is also teamed up with a camera that shows what is happening inside.

The system is mainly suited to horse owners or those transporting valuable and fragile goods.

But the camera element might be useful for those transporting livestock over long distances.

The Cargo Sense system also comes with an app that alerts you if anyone starts tampering with the trailer.