Volkswagen Develops RooBadge to Address Kangaroo Collisions

Volkswagen Australia, in partnership with DDB Group, the University of Melbourne, and WIRES, has introduced the RooBadge, a device designed to reduce the frequency of vehicle collisions with kangaroos.

The device, which integrates into the car’s badge area, emits a blend of natural and artificial sounds intended to deter kangaroos from approaching the roadway.

The technology behind the RooBadge is linked to an application within the car that utilizes GPS data to identify the vehicle's location and adjust the emitted sounds according to the distribution of kangaroo species in the area.

This initiative, resulting from three years of collaborative development, has now progressed to Stage Four trials, which aim to test the device's effectiveness in real-world conditions.

The University of Melbourne’s Associate Professor Graeme Coulson has provided insights into the technology, noting its capacity to adapt deterrent sounds based on geographic location to address the varied reactions of different kangaroo species.

This phase of the project follows a comprehensive research and development effort that has adhered to ethical standards in conducting wildlife trials.

The device seeks to contribute to the reduction of kangaroo-related vehicle accidents, which represent a significant portion of wildlife accidents on Australian roads.

The broader implications of the RooBadge’s deployment include the potential for decreased vehicle damage and a lower risk of accidents resulting from attempts to avoid kangaroos.

Additionally, there is consideration for the application of this technology in other regions facing similar challenges with wildlife, such as areas with high deer populations.

Feedback from WIRES underscores the relevance of innovative approaches to mitigating wildlife collisions, particularly in times of increased travel.

Volkswagen’s involvement in the RooBadge project reflects an effort to leverage technology in addressing safety and environmental concerns associated with road travel.