Over the years, the camera technology in vehicles has dramatically improved. We started out with rudimentary low-resolution backup cameras, and now we have crystal clear images with multiple views, guidelines, and radar sensors to detect obstacles. We recently had a chance to go eyes-on with one of the most sophisticated examples of in-vehicle camera technology yet, in the 2020 GMC Sierra HD pickup truck line.

For the new model year, GMC will offer an optional camera system that provides a whopping 15 different views, including blind-spot cameras, top-down, bed, trailer hitch view, and even a view inside of your trailer. Perhaps the niftiest feature available is designed for improving safety and visibility when towing a trailer down the road. Basically, it lets you see behind trailers up to 32 feet long.

The feature, informally referred to as “Transparent Trailer” uses a combination of the tailgate camera built into the truck, along with a wired remote camera you place on the back of your trailer, and stitches them together in real time to create a live feed.

The result is impressive. While I captured the images and video here, we were towing a 13,000 pound box trailer behind the truck, and there’s no way I could have seen what cars were behind us otherwise. However, with the Transparent Trailer tech, there was a clear view of the road behind, and any vehicles that were behind or attempting to pass us.

I can imagine this being a godsend for people who regularly tow large trailers, and is sure to improve maneuverability and safety. While the feature is initially available on the 2020 Sierra HD trucks, it sounds like it should soon be an option for their light-duty Sierra trucks soon as well.

For more information on the 2020 GMC truck lineup and all of its available towing and technology features, check out the GMC website.