The National Federation of the Blind, along with the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, College of Engineering just announced a partnership into demonstrating the first street vehicle that sports technology which allows a blind person to drive independently. The vehicle is set to be showcased to the public as a part of the pre-race program of the 2011 Rolex 24 at Daytona.

The vehicle used will be a Ford Escape, that is equipped with nonvisual interface technology, with a blind person behind the wheel, driving it on part of the famous Daytona International Speedway course, scheduled for the 29th of January, 2011.

"GRAND-AM is honored to lend its support to this intriguing—and inspirational—project," said GRAND-AM Spokesman Herb Branham. "The Rolex 24 At Daytona is a showcase for the latest automobile technology, making this race an appropriate backdrop for the first public demonstration of a car that can be driven by the blind."

When I watched the video bellow, I have to admit that I got the chills, goosebumps, call them whatever you like. By far, among the many and so-called breakthrough developments, this is definitely the best thing I've ever came across. I find it absolutely amazing, since this will allow people that have either lost their sight, or were born that way, to regain a great independence, and their self-trust.




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