The power of innovation has revolutionized the world. Through innovation, we not only invented machines, but we are continually applying better solutions to serve the new market needs. Nowadays, cars can accomplish more than just getting you places; they can entertain, warn, and even drive themselves. Some cars can even press the emergency brakes for you, isn’t that incredible? The following are some technologies you can look for when buying a new car in 2019. You may not need all of them so chose wisely for the specific technology that meets your needs.
- CAR APPS
The smartphone industry has taken the world by storm and revolutionized a lot of sectors. In the not so distant past, we had the basic phones for just texting and calling. Nowadays, we have handheld computers called smartphones that can even control your vehicle. Smartphone apps can accomplish tasks such as remotely start your vehicle, lock and open the doors, update you on the fuel level and tire pressure among other capabilities. Apps like Car Maintenance by myCARFAX allow you to keep track of your vehicle’s maintenance and repairs. This app is free, but there are numerous apps out there, some free and some based on subscription fees, that you can connect to your car to make driving easier.
- ANDROID AUTO AND APPLE CARPLAY
We all love the infotainment screen that is inbuilt in almost all cars. This is the car’s screen that helps you monitor the GPS, climate, and steering control. However, most people would agree that this system is quite technical; it doesn’t have the best UX design. Apple CarPlay and Android autosave the day once again with their user-friendly technologies. These apps make it easier to access your music, messages, and other systems in the car. Some cars even have these apps built in, like the new Toyota Camry.
- LANE DEPARTURE WARNING
This is a technology that uses cameras to detect the lane stripes marked on the highway. Sometimes it’s easy to get distracted when driving, and when you do, you may find yourself drifting into the wrong lane. This system warns you every time you enter into the wrong lane or when you touch the lane marker. A more advanced lane warning system steers you gently back to the right lane.
- VEHICLE-TO-VEHICLE COMMUNICATION
This is a technology that allows vehicles to communicate with each other through Dedicated Short-Range Communications (DSRC). Vehicles communicate by giving information such as their speed, direction, and even when a certain driver has lost control of his or her car. With a lot of improvements, this system will not just warn you; it can also automatically press the brakes to prevent a collision. The braking is made possible by the AEB (Automatic Emergency Braking). Besides just making the car easier to use, now cars can save your life when you’re not paying attention.
- ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL
One of the most unpleasant occurrences is having to hit the gas and brakes pedal on the highway. Vehicles don’t move at a constant speed, so it does get annoying, sometimes, trying to balance the speed on a busy road. The adaptive cruise control replicates the speed of the car in front of you. When in a traffic jam, the car can halt completely and continue moving automatically. You’re simply giving your car some freedom to control itself. This sounds scary, but it’s incredibly useful once you try it.
- PROTECTING CYCLISTS WITH EXIT WARNINGS
Most cyclists are aware of the danger posed by parked vehicles. A door can suddenly swing open when a cyclist is passing by, injuring him and the passenger. This system uses rear sensors to detect oncoming traffic or cyclists and warns the passenger of the danger. This technology has been further improved so that it can completely lock the doors until the road is clear.
- TEEN DRIVER TECHNOLOGY
Worry no more when giving your teenager the car for the first time: this technology allows you to monitor their driving habits and whether they observed the rules. Some vehicles have the option to lock the steering wheel until the seat belts are used.
A LONG ROAD AHEAD FOR AUTOMOTIVE TECH
The innovations mentioned here show that the automotive industry is not left behind when it comes to technological advancements. If these technologies are embraced on a wider scale, accidents can be greatly reduced and our roads can become safe for everyone. Besides safety, driving has become more fun nowadays. We can’t wait to see what comes next in this dynamic industry.
