In a relatively short time, the automobile industry has evolved enormously. Nowadays, most cars in circulation have technological equipment that primarily aims to help drivers throughout their journeys. Who would have envisaged this a century ago? The visionaries, certainly, but maybe not road users. However, it’s a safe bet that innovative technologies, such as automotive heads-up display will continue to evolve until fully autonomous vehicles can take over temporarily, like the autopilot of aeroplanes. While the first road tests are underway in the United States, with good levels of success depending on the complexity of the route to be followed, the technology will take time to be considered mainstream. Until then, drivers will have to be content with radar warning devices, GPS navigation, reversing cameras, and new comfort equipment.
Speed camera warning devices
Even though road regulations in most countries strictly prohibit equipment to detect the presence of speed cameras, many drivers admit to regularly using a speed camera warning device. A few years ago, drivers keen to slip through the cracks had to equip themselves with a box, but today, many mobile applications allow real-time access to this type of information. Check the rules of your locality first to ensure you don’t commit any traffic violations.
Separate satnav devices are increasingly a thing of the past
For those who have experienced parental arguments over the interpretation of a road map: those days are long over. As with radar warning devices, many smartphone applications have replaced portable GPS units. In the most recent car models, it is not uncommon to find an integrated navigation system positioned directly on the dashboard. Once the destination address has been entered, this allows the driver to choose a route and then be guided until they reach their destination.
Reversing cameras and radars
Despite passing their driving test, many drivers struggle when reversing around a corner or parking. Luckily, research and development departments have applied themselves to improving the situation in the form of reversing cameras and radars. These technologies use sensors to help drivers and enable them to perform their manoeuvres more safely and confidently.
Comfort equipment
There are also other automotive technologies and assistance which are specifically related to comfort. This is the case, for example, with heated or relaxing seats, automotive heads-up displays, sophisticated audio systems, and even heated exterior mirrors. They are not essential for driving, but they provide improved levels of comfort for drivers and passengers of a vehicle.
Other technologies, much less visible, are also used by car manufacturers to improve the performance of the most expensive models. This is undoubtedly the case for luxury cars whose bodywork has been lightened to improve driving sensations. As for the sports models, it is at engine level that a significant part of the evolutions will be carried out, to the delight of the amateurs of dazzling accelerations, within the limit of the maximum authorized speed.
All of these technologies are designed to help road users, whether they are seasoned drivers or candidates anxiously awaiting the results of their driving test.
