Subaru Canada’s new safety feature, DriverFocus, is awarded the Best Safety Innovation for 2019 at the Canadian International AutoShow in Toronto by Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC).

Subaru’s DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System works alongside the EyeSight driver assist suite to reduce the probability of collision by using facial recognition software, which identifies signs of driver fatigue and distracted driving. The camera mounted atop the dash can also register and recognize up to five drivers and remember their individual pre-sets for seat position and door mirror angle, among others. It is currently available in the 2019 Forester and the newly announced 2020 Legacy.

“As our brand continues to grow and evolve to meet the needs of customers, our commitment to safety is second to none,” said Yasushi Enami, Chairman, President & CEO of Subaru Canada. “This award from AJAC is a wonderful tribute to Subaru’s core values as we prioritize the safety of not just Subaru drivers, but the safety of all.”

In 2018, AJAC members nominated 30 different automotive innovations for consideration. A panel of nine judges, who specialize in automotive technology, then proceeded to review the nominated entries, create a short list of finalists in each category, and then question manufacturer representatives on their presented innovations. The jurors voted again by secret ballot, which was then compiled and authenticated by accounting firm KPMG.

“The Innovation Awards now recognize safety, environmental awareness and technology,” said Mark Richardson, President, Automobile Journalists Association of Canada. “This is an opportunity to recognize the very best and most innovative examples of new automotive products available to Canadian drivers.”