Mahan thinks a gradual creep of automated features will lay the foundations for blind drivers to become acceptable.

BBC: Blind drivers at the steering wheel

As Mark mentioned in his speech at the press conference after the first public demo of the vehicle early this year, blind drivers have other sources of information beyond the DriveGrip and SpeedStrip controls.

CNN: Why we made a car for blind drivers

Over the next couple of years, such sensors will expand their range, to check for obstacles entering a car's blind spots and issue warnings to drivers if a collision seems imminent.

ECONOMIST: MONITOR

Drivers from Reading Buses and blind and partially sighted passengers also shared their experiences of travelling on board and communicating with each other.

BBC: Reading Buses supports initiative for blind passengers

Systems that monitor blind spots and track the alertness of drivers, and electronic stability control - which can detect and help prevent a skid - are already being introduced to many new vehicles.

BBC: How close are we to a crash-proof car?

Volvo says the coming C30 will take cues from the recently unveiled concept coupe called 3CC, and the a safety concept car Volvo displayed in 2001, which included features like rearview mirrors that alert drivers when a car is in his blind spot or too close for comfort.

FORBES: Little Luxuries

Bus drivers in Worcester are being given a chance to understand what it is like for a blind or partially sighted person to use public transport.

BBC: Worcester bus drivers experience life as a blind passenger