Heart rate sensors in cars? What's next, measuring tape that talks?

Just saw this article about Toyota's new heart rate detection thingy. Sounds like they're putting a pulse sensor in the steering wheel or something. Weird but kinda cool. But why? I mean, I get monitoring vitals, but in a car? Maybe for detecting if you're about to have a heart attack or fall asleep? Anyway, what do you guys think? Is this just a gimmick or could it be useful?

Pete, that does sound out there. But hey, as a guy who measures twice and cuts once, I appreciate precision. If it can measure your heart rate accurately while driving, that's some serious sensor tech. But I'm with you, seems like a solution looking for a problem. Next they'll be putting laser levels in the glovebox lol.

Actually, I worked on a project where we installed a similar system in fleet vehicles for a wellness program. It's all about data. If the car can detect a sudden spike in heart rate, maybe it can alert emergency services or pull over safely. Could save a life. But it's got to be reliable, no false alarms. I'd trust Toyota to get it right, they're known for quality. Still, I'd rather have a good tape measure any day.

I'm all for high-tech measuring tools, but this seems more like big brother stuff. I don't want my car monitoring my vitals. Next thing you know, it'll report to my insurance company if I'm stressed. That's a slippery slope. But from an engineering standpoint, it's impressive that they can pack that much sensor tech into a vehicle. I just hope they'd rather invest in making better calipers, lol.