TECHNOLOGY is evolving quickly.
Driverless vehicles, hands-free parking and electric engines are already a reality but there are many other features you’ll be seeing soon.
Head of Gumtree Autos, Jeff Osborne, picks his top vehicle tech-trends you can look out for.
Wristband keys: If you tap the wristband against a specific part of the vehicle, a door opens. Jaguar’s Activity Key is the leader in this category. The wristbands are waterproof and can be worn at the beach or in the shower.
Augmented reality (AR) test drives: Some manufacturers are providing downloadable 3-D driving and vehicle tutorials. Hyundai is one brand that’s a long way down the AR road already.
In-car entertainment: Entertainment is now a huge priority for manufacturers. A self-drive vehicle means that the driver is free to connect with business life or with entertainment, so expect enhanced in-car live streaming capabilities, augmented reality window displays, upgraded TV screens and bespoke music systems.
Car cams: Inside and outside-facing video cameras are increasingly required for insurance claims. Some manufacturers, such as notably Citroen with its Connected-CAM, are installing car cams and dash cams into their vehicles as standard features in their top-of-the-line offerings.
Solar-powered windows: Some clever scientists have found a way to make solar panels out of glass which means ordinary windows can generate electricity. That just means it’s a small jump to vehicle windows.
Body-panel batteries: Researchers are testing polymer-resin and carbon-fibre packages inside car panels.
These batteries are designed to recharge quickly which would give electric vehicles a longer drive-charge as well as reduce the vehicle’s weight.
Computer security: Top-end cars now are connected by sophisticated computer networks. Manufacturers are using artificial intelligence programs that learn to self develop protection from hacking or viruses, which should boost the vehicle’s safety and performance.
