The AXV-III was a concept vehicle first shown at the October 1991 Tokyo Motor Show and later at the February 1993 Chicago Auto Show. The new Carina demonstrated automated driver aids such as vehicle-to-vehicle distance maintenance and a voice synthesizer that gave instructions for upcoming intersections.
The AXV-III cruise control maintained vehicle-to-vehicle distance. A pulsed laser beam measured distances over 33 feet. Distances under 33 feet were calculated by a CCD camera using techniques similar to a camera's auto-focus. An electronic version replaced the usual accelerator linkage. The computer could slow the car down automatically by removing power and activating the brakes when the car in front came too close.
A voice-activated GPS displayed the current location, and two door-mounted airbags supplied additional safety.
Source: Wikipedia
Images: Toyota
