The DIO will bring together over 35 of the world's leading authorities from engineering, medicine, automotive manufacturing, societal organizations, academia and government research centers to again take a comprehensive look at the relationship between vision and the safe operation of a motorized vehicle.

By 2020, there will be 38 million potential drivers over 70 years of age. Many of them may have modest visual deficiencies. The needless loss of independence, if many of these drivers are denied driving permits, will be significant problems from both societal and economic points of view, even though there is no scientific evidence to show there would be increased crash consequences were they allowed to continue driving.

Advances in automotive technology have led to devices and automotive design and engineering that can enhance vision, reduce blind spots, render vehicles more visually appropriate, and in all probability, reduce vehicle crash rates.

The Eye and The Auto provides the opportunity for a collegial relationship between scientists alert to this art, corporate automotive engineers brimming with ideas, and physicians cognizant of the implications of both visual and systemic matters. This elegant opportunity to cooperate will reduce the hazards inherent in motor vehicle operation.

Day 1, June 23rd, will discuss matters related to the eye, vision, and the act of seeing; especially its role in driving.

Day 2, June 24th, will explore advances being made in the automotive industry to enhance the vision of drivers. Night vision systems, visual enhancement systems related to the elimination of blind spots (as in the Volvo windowed A-pillar), or various television or telematic systems, will be discussed.

Day 3, June 25th, will focus on the physical and socioeconomic environment in which the driver performs. Studies that relate to road illumination, signage design and related factors, inclement weather-related matters and their influence on vision, and the economic significance of this subject will be presented.

Given the impressive response we've received to The Eye and The Auto 2005, corporations in the automotive and transportation sectors clearly understand the importance of the subject and are supporting it through the participation of their scientists, engineers and designers. Display vehicles from automotive and related companies which incorporate vision enhancing engineering and technologies will add to the importance of the congress. Approximately 300 people are expected to attend.

A block of rooms has been set aside for attendees of The Eye and The Auto at The Royal Park Hotel. Special room rates of $159.00/night are available by calling (248)652-2600 and mentioning 'The Eye and The Auto'.

All attendees of The Eye and The Auto will receive complimentary tickets to the Eyes on Design international automotive exhibition held on Sunday, June 26 at the Edsel & Eleanor Ford House in Grosse Pointe Shores, MI. (Click on www.eyeson.org for more information.)