In the newer Mercedes-Benz G-Class, including models equipped with the W465 AMG Performance Steering Wheel, the night vision system can be integrated with the steering wheel controls to provide enhanced driving experiences in low-light conditions. The night vision system typically uses infrared cameras to detect heat signatures from objects on or near the road, such as pedestrians, animals, and other vehicles, and displays them on the digital screen or heads-up display for improved visibility at night.

How the Steering Wheel Interacts with the Night Vision System:

1. Activating the Night Vision System:
   • The steering wheel can be used to activate or toggle the night vision system on and off, usually through dedicated buttons or touch-sensitive controls.
   • For example, the driver might use a button on the steering wheel or the MBUX interface (via the wheel’s controls) to engage the night vision mode. This activates the system, which then displays thermal images of objects in the vehicle's path on the infotainment screen or heads-up display.
2. Adjusting Display Settings:
   • Once activated, the steering wheel can allow the driver to adjust the settings related to the night vision display. For example:
     • The driver can toggle between standard night vision mode and pedestrian detection mode.
     • In some systems, the steering wheel controls may allow the user to adjust the contrast or brightness of the infrared display to optimize the visibility of obstacles or heat signatures in low-light environments.
3. Integrating with Other Driver Assistance Systems:
   • The night vision system works in conjunction with other driver assistance features, and the steering wheel can allow the driver to interact with these systems.
     • For instance, if the night vision system detects a pedestrian or animal on the road, the steering wheel controls may allow the driver to activate or adjust the active safety systems, like autonomous emergency braking or lane departure warnings, based on the visual input from the night vision system.
     • In some models, the steering wheel can be used to toggle between safety alerts that are shown on the digital display when an object is detected in low-light conditions.
4. Displaying Night Vision Data on the Digital Cluster:
   • For a more immersive experience, the night vision system can project an overlay of thermal images or infrared visuals on the digital instrument cluster. The steering wheel can be used to switch between views, for example, between the standard view, night vision, and augmented reality overlays for better situational awareness.
   • The driver can access this data without needing to take their hands off the wheel, creating a smoother, safer driving experience in dark or challenging conditions.
5. Real-Time Alerts and Feedback:
   • The steering wheel can also provide real-time feedback if the system detects a potential hazard. If the night vision system spots a pedestrian or animal, visual or audible alerts might be triggered through the steering wheel or the heads-up display, ensuring that the driver remains focused and aware of the situation.

Conclusion:

In the newer G-Class models equipped with the W465 AMG Performance Steering Wheel, the night vision system is integrated seamlessly with the steering wheel controls. The driver can activate, adjust, and interact with the night vision system directly through the steering wheel, enhancing safety and awareness when driving in low-light or dark conditions. This integration helps the driver react to potential hazards quickly, ensuring a safer and more confident driving experience.