Shortwave infrared imaging can be used in Driver Vision Enhancement (DVE). InGaAs cameras use reflected light from nightglow, urban glow, covert illuminators, or sunshine as their illumination source in order to aid the driver. Using these sources of illumination, SWIR imagery allows users to see standard taillights and headlights from other vehicles, as well as the surrounding street lights. An added advantage, unique to SWIR, is its ability to image using covert illumination; these illuminators can be used as headlights and taillights, and when paired with a shortwave IR camera, the illumination enhances the driver's view of the road ahead and permits the driver to warn the convoy behind of sudden stops. Moreover, all the driver's movement and activity can not be detected by night vision goggles (NVGs), as all the light emitted from these illumination sources would be out of the NVG detection band.

An example of a vehicle equipped with an active Driver Vision Enhancement.

In DVE systems, SWIR imaging is effective because it aids in identification, not just detection. SWIR light is reflected so features are very similar to visible light, users can see shadows and differences between roads and shoulders among other features (i.e. headlights and taillights) which could be lost in thermal DVE systems. Thermal DVE systems rely on temperature or emissivity differences which can make it difficult to see ruts or rocks in the roadway when all temperatures are similar. This makes it difficult to drive off road or on road, especially in convoys where it is tough to see brake lights. In the most effective use of SWIR illumination, the driver would have the ability to briefly turn on SWIR lights when ambient illumination is not available, such as when passing beneath heavy trees or in a tunnel. Ultimately, the shortwave infrared makes DVE systems more effective.