Fender Camera Vs up High
When it comes to eliminating blind spots and improving driver visibility, camera placement is everything. For years, side fender cameras—mounted low on the corner panel—have been the industry norm. But are they still the best choice?
At Fir Tree Technology, we took a step back and asked: what if there’s a better way? That’s when we developed our up-high camera system, designed with both visibility and durability in mind.
Fender Camera
Up High Camera
Fender Camera
Typically Providing a 150° to 165° view angle. Which where it is placed is plentiful. However, the placement of the camera is what reduces the view.
Diagram on the right shows the viewing angle. Covers a large amount of space down the side of the vehicle, however it cuts off that view under the rear view mirror which is a very crucial blind spot.
Up High Camera
Up-High Cameras are using a 180° camera angles to capture and cover as much as possible. The placement of the camera at a high point and pointed downwards to catch the front fender and outwards for full blind spot viewability.
This is crucial as when stopped at traffic lights or crossings, you may not be able to see who or what is right next to the vehicle so the additional view is extremely helpful.
The Problem with Traditional Fender Cameras
Most factory-fitted or aftermarket side cameras are mounted low down on the corner panels or mirror arms. While this placement seemed logical in the early days of vehicle safety systems, it brings with it a few critical flaws:
Vulnerability to Jet Wash Damage
These cameras sit right in the line of fire during pressure washing. Over time, repeated blasts of water and cleaning chemicals can cause water ingress, electrical issues, or even full-on failure.Increased Risk of Impact
Being mounted low and on the corner, these units are more exposed to knocks from walls, posts, branches, or even during tight manoeuvres.Limited View of Critical Blind Spots
Perhaps most important of all – they miss what matters most. Their position gives a narrow view and doesn’t effectively cover the front corner blind spot, where vulnerable road users like cyclists or pedestrians are most at risk.
Our Solution: Up-High Side Cameras
At Fir Tree Technology, we’ve developed a smarter way. Our camera systems mount above the doors, positioned higher up on the cab. Here’s why that makes a difference:
Better Protection, Less Downtime
Placed well away from jet wash angles and daily hazards, our cameras last longer and experience far fewer issues. That means fewer replacements, less downtime, and more uptime for your fleet.Wider Field of View
Mounted high up, the camera captures a much broader scene – including the truck’s side and the forward corner. When paired with a forward-facing camera, this provides a near-seamless wraparound view, giving drivers a clearer picture of what’s ahead and beside them.Designed with Real Roads in Mind
Our high-mounted cameras weren’t just an afterthought – they were designed specifically to address the blind spots that matter most on today’s busy roads, particularly in urban environments where cyclist and pedestrian safety is critical.