Dubbed Target Blu Eye, the technology is available through Cambridge-based CBS Automotive and uses radio signals from the O2 Airwave Network, (Tetra). Drivers are warned of approaching emergency vehicles by both visual and auditory alerts on the user display up to a kilometre radius even when the vehicle is not using its siren or flashing lights. 

The firm said the technology could be used to avoid thousands of accidents involving emergency vehicles and private and commercial vehicles every year. As an example, in the three years between 2008 and 2010, the Metropolitan Police were involved in more than 12,000 accidents resulting in 3,015 casualties, according to the Daily Mail. There were 22 fatalities including 16 motorists.

‘Every fatality on our roads is one fatality too many,’ said Naeem Khokhar, managing director of CBS Automotive. ‘With Target Blu Eye installed in your car, you are stacking the deck in your favour.’

The recommended retail price is £999 plus installation.