Since Karl Benz invented the first automobile, the car industry has grown by leaps and bounds. It has been very receptive to emerging technologies and has changed with the times. Technology has transformed the way cars are designed, manufactured, operated, and maintained. It has also introduced new ways of refueling cars, and soon, hybrid, electric, and solar energy systems may displace the gas-fed engine.
We’re very happy with the changes brought about by technology. Autonomous technologies and computers have increased user interactivity and decreased the need for drivers to take direct control of driving. Onboard navigation systems are gradually taking over the job of drivers. Cars of the future will be autonomous and interactive. The future of the auto industry looks bright, thanks to exciting technological innovations. Here are two changes in the auto industry that have been brought about by technology.
Reducing the Auto Industry’s Environmental Impact
As we become more aware of our carbon footprint, sustainable transportation is becoming a major part of technological innovations. Electric vehicles (EVs) are slowly becoming more popular than fuel-powered vehicles as they are environmentally friendly. And as the cars continue to become more popular, EV charging stations will increase, allowing drivers to easily power their vehicles and drive for longer.
Increased transport costs have also increased the need for sustainable automotive technology. Electric cars are a more economical solution for car owners who save up to a third on petrol costs. As EV battery prices continue to drop and governments continue to offer subsidies for the vehicles, more people will buy them, transforming the face of the automotive industry.
Cars Are More Interactive
In this day and age, people expect more from their cars than just high performance. For example, car buyers now look for an augmented reality vehicle when shopping for cars. AR allows car buyers to explore the interiors and exteriors of thousands of vehicles from the comfort of their homes. In the near future, augmented-reality HUDs will be a common feature in cars. Panasonic recently unveiled an augmented-reality HUD that shows drivers objects on the road, lane edges, and other vital information. The technology uses artificial intelligence and helps drivers know whether an object ahead is a vehicle, a pedestrian, or a trash can.
Auto companies have also started using Big Data to enhance automotive interactivity. Drivers have access to maps, traffic warnings, weather forecasts and other important real-time information. Cars also collect and share some other important data for analysis, like fuel consumption. This data, along with data on mileage and driver skills, can be used by insurance companies to determine premium rates.
Data about the car itself, like system and component data, is very important for maintenance and warranty purposes. It can be crucial to driver safety. They can avoid accidents and plan their trip accordingly. Huge amounts of constantly changing data can provide new and improved user experience. It can improve driver safety and make a vehicle better and safer.