The Impact of Connectivity on the Automotive Industry

When we turn on the ignition and begin our daily commute, we have high expectations of our vehicles. We want to be able to call our mothers with a simple voice command, access a variety of entertainment systems, adjust the sun's glare on the windshield, avoid traffic jams, and predict — and avoid — potential breakdowns.

In short, the ability for drivers to connect to the outside world while maintaining a smooth and safe driving experience is now considered a necessity rather than a nice-to-have. That explains why connectivity will be the driving force in the automotive industry in 2022 and beyond. Indeed, 75 percent of all vehicles produced in the next five years are expected to be connected. Fully autonomous vehicles are without a doubt the pinnacle of connected vehicles. But, while we wait for these to become commonplace, it's worth noting the various other auto technologies that are already providing consumers with a more personalised, efficient, connected, and luxurious experience.

Voice Recognition Technology

Voice recognition technology allows voice commands to control temperature, climate, navigation, and entertainment systems. Whether a driver wants to send a text message, schedule a work meeting, turn up the air conditioning, or reroute the GPS, this technology makes it a lot easier and safer.

Remote Control

Remote control systems allow drivers to unlock or start their vehicles remotely. This means that, depending on the driver's preferences and the outside weather, a car could be warmed up or cooled down before driving. Furthermore, these systems enable drivers to monitor fuel levels, grant access to a guest driver, check for vehicle alerts, and locate their parking spot.

Driver Assistance Technology

Driver assistance technologies (ADAS) automate, improve, and assist with certain aspects of driving, resulting in a safer driving experience. These technologies could, for example, prevent drivers from drifting out of their lane or monitor blind spots. Car sensors can analyse weather and temperature data, allowing them to warn drivers of hazardous driving conditions or tell them when and where to take a break. Wearable technologies can even detect when a driver is about to fall asleep and prompt them to take a break. Brain-to-Vehicle (B2V) technology, which measures brain wave activity, is expected to be used in the future to predict and anticipate driver behaviours.

Heads-up Displays

Heads-up displays display an image on the windscreen of a vehicle, close to the driver's line of sight. These displays can show data such as speed, direction, fuel level, time, and driving route. This is a useful safety feature because it eliminates the need for drivers to look away from the road.

Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) Technology

V2V technology allows vehicles to communicate with one another as well as roadside infrastructure such as smart traffic lights and signage. Speed limits, location, direction of travel, weather conditions, road accidents, and traffic jams could all be included. This technology aids in the reduction of both traffic congestion and accidents.

Automotive Telematics

Telematics refers to the continuous monitoring of vehicles using GPS technology, onboard vehicle diagnostics (OBD), and wireless telematics devices, which can enable preventative maintenance among other things. This improves vehicle durability and reliability while also providing automakers with valuable data insights. The latter, in turn, aids in the development of better, more personalised vehicles for customers.

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