Technology touches almost every aspect of our lives, mostly for the better, and now it’s set to super-charge the automotive industry. Those driving older cars around may not know just how much vehicle technology has advanced in recent years and where it’s heading in the years to come.
Growing connectivity
Smart cars are now more of a reality than they are science fiction. Connectivity is a common theme in many automotive innovations and in the future we’re likely to be connected to our smartphones, the internet, and even other vehicles while on the road. All of this makes for a smoother and safer driving experience, with fewer distractions from our devices.
Integrated connectivity enhances vehicle technology by removing the need for a range of different adapters and cables in our vehicles. Features such as voice control and voice feedback will also allow for safer and more efficient use of GPS and navigation tools.
Traditional cars keys will soon be a thing of the past as well, with the increasing adoption of remote entry. The latest upgrades aren’t just for convenience and luxury either; sensors or cameras powered by artificial intelligence significantly improve driver awareness and safety.
The growing adoption of hybrid and electric vehicles
Tesla is a well-known leader in the electric vehicle space, but they are far from the only major player. Many companies are prototyping vehicles for the future to showcase what’s possible and inspire further innovation. Tech companies such as Apple are even entering the vehicle technology space, recognising that the software in future vehicles will be as critical as their hardware.
The uptake of electric vehicles is already increasing here in New Zealand. While vehicle recharging infrastructure is not yet quite as pervasive as petrol stations are, this is likely to become the case sooner rather than later. It’s predicted that by 2040, over half of all car sales around the world will be for hybrid vehicles.
An autonomous future
While many drivers are in no hurry to give up control of their vehicle, autonomous vehicles are heading our way. The technological innovations that enable vehicle autonomy will impact the production of all new vehicles – mostly in the name of safety. Greater innovations continue to make vehicles increasingly autonomous, a trend likely to continue until self-driving cars are the new normal.
Such innovations push vehicles beyond simply being a means of transportation. Self-driving vehicles and their connectivity allows for greater usability and utilisation of vehicles. For example, you’ll be able to work while you’re commuting, or have more immersive in-car entertainment available for longer trips.
Other smart features of our future vehicle purchases may include:
- Keyless entry
- Built-in wireless phone charging
- Augmented reality dashboard
- Body panel batteries
- Self-repairing paint
- 360-degree cameras
- Self-parking
- Night vision
- App-based start and security
- Biometric monitoring
If you’re not in the market for a new car, these technological developments may not preoccupy your thoughts too much right now. However, if you are looking to purchase a new vehicle in the next few years, it pays to keep up to date with the latest developments and compare your options to ensure you purchase a vehicle built for the future.
It’s an exciting time for innovation at the moment, and we’re excited to see what the future has in store for the automotive sector!