Ever since vehicles have been introduced into the mainstream markets of the world, technological innovations have always been a part of the industry. The automotive industry is witness to several incredible technological advances over the past decade alone. Automotive technologies are evolving consistently with a focus on enhancing the safety and efficiency of vehicles

Just like every other industry, the automobile industry is also rapidly advancing in contemporary times. Many new markets and segments have emerged in this field to intensify the race for the development of advanced technologies that will decide the future of the automotive industry. 

The integration of technological advances makes cars safer, user-friendly and has introduced several features that improve their value and usefulness for owners. Technologies like autonomous driving and accident prevention are among other features that have successfully been implemented into the modern car.

Today, we’re looking at 5 ways technology is changing the automotive industry. 

1. Self Driving Systems

Autonomous driving is set to change the automobile industry’s face by eliminating the need for a human behind the wheels. 

A very rudimentary system already in place is the cruise control system, which can detect the vehicle travelling ahead of your automobile and automatically adjust the travelling speed from 0 to 155 miles per hour. The system employs two radar sensors in the front of the vehicle that allows the control system to manoeuvre the vehicles.

Autonomous driving systems can also be used to perform automatic parking of vehicles without the driver’s intervention. This system uses sensors to detect the space available and calculates the exact way to park the automobile. 

However, the end goal of this technology is to finally be able to make the car fully autonomous. By using technologies like artificial intelligence, internet of things and machine learning, a lot of research has been done in this field by the leading software giants and automobile companies, like Google, Waymo and Tesla. 

These companies have already tested a few models on the roads with self-driving technology in hopes of being able to finally invent the technology for cars to operate smartly without any human intervention.

2. Predictive Technology

Automobile manufacturers are leveraging machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) to comprehend the operating patterns and trends of the driver and enhance the safety factor of the vehicle. This technology is capable of providing a highly personal driving experience for users. You can set up the application preferences and the infotainment system of your vehicle by using algorithms. Your car will soon also become capable of understanding voice commands and connecting with smart devices. 

Another popular application of predictive analytics is predictive maintenance, which detects issues related to vehicle maintenance before they occur. Predictive collision avoidance systems are also gaining popularity in modern cars, as it performs an override function to actuate emergency braking to prevent accidents from happening. 

3. Augmented Reality Dashboard

Moving onto even more futuristic advancements, carmakers have long mulled the use of augmented reality. This technology allows you to transform your windshield as a screen for displaying information to the user. Using this technology, cars will be enabled to identify the external elements and display their related information on the windshield to help the driver make informed driving decisions. The system can show relevant information through the HUD, such as current weather, speed, gas mileage, RPM, speed, and much more. 

Existing technologies that have started to use augmented reality on the car dashboard is the GPS technology, which has made driving simpler and safer. The navigation technology with the use of holographic symbols allows drivers to follow directions without the need for taking their eyes off the road. 

4. Safety First

Safety is a key part for driving, safety technology systems are increasingly important to carmakers. No longer are safety features just confined to the number of airbags you have in your car, but rather, includes the addition of new features like traction and stability control and the standard multi-angle rearview camera. Essentially, carmakers are ensuring that it is a collection of driver assistance and accident prevention features. 

Some of these safety features include Lane Departure Warning and the Lane Keeping Assist, which helps to keep drivers alert on the road. The Collision Mitigation Braking System is also the last attempt to avoid an accident; if it senses you haven’t responded to a possible collision, it can apply the brakes to slow or even stop your vehicle. 

Others, like the Adaptive Cruise Control and the Forward Collision Warning used radar technology, to help drivers keep an eye out on the roads in case of accidents. Airbags can also be used as an active safety system that can be deployed under the car and integrated with sensors to send alerts to stop the car before any crash occurs.

Conclusion

With the convergence of customer demands, electrification, and connectivity, cars are now being revolutionized as technological advances are being made. In the coming decades, innovation and creativity are the foremost priority for automakers to improve customer satisfaction and sales. Now’s the opportunity for carmakers to integrate smart technologies into vehicles that serve to enhance the overall ease of use and safety. 

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