4 New Features You'll Find In The Latest Cars
18th December 2008
4 New Features You’ll Find In The Latest Cars
If you’re driving an older model vehicle, you may be surprised to discover the types of features that new cars are being designed with. Admittedly, some of them are superfluous; they’re nice to have and brag to your friends about, but won’t add much practical value. Others are extremely useful. They offer better safety, more convenience, and a more enjoyable time behind the wheel. The next time you visit a dealership, some of these new features may not even be optional. Below, I’ll give you a quick overview of 4 of the most interesting and promising.
#1 – iPod Integration
Plugging your iPod into your vehicle isn’t a new technology, but automakers are aggressively pursuing ways to make the experience more convenient. From inexpensive ports to seamless docking stations, car manufacturers continue to leverage the popularity of the world’s favorite MP3 player. The latest systems will allow you to control your iPod through controls that are installed directly into your steering wheel.
#2 – Rear View Cameras
Over the past decade, automakers seemed dedicated to producing ever-larger vehicles to sate the marketplace’s insatiable appetite for them. Massive SUVs began to litter the roads. The downside is that the driver’s blind spot behind the vehicle expanded, leading to hundreds of fatalities as unobservant motorists unwittingly backed up upon those who were behind them. Rear view cameras are gaining popularity. Initially, they were only available in SUVs, but today, cars and trucks can be equipped with them at the factory.
#3 – Bluetooth Technology
It was only a matter of time until legislation was drafted to reduce cell phone-related traffic accidents. Bluetooth technology has been available in vehicles for a few years. However, as state and federal governments pass laws restricting drivers’ use of cell phones, automakers are including this feature in larger portions of their inventory. As long as your cell phone is already “Bluetooth enabled,” you can simply say, “Call parents” to dial and connect hands-free.
#4 – Keyless Entry And Ignition
This is more of a “nice to have” feature, but can be valuable if you struggle with your keys. Most new cars come with key fobs. Press a button and the doors unlock. Press it again and it activates the locks. Pretty simple. The only problem is that you still need to actually press a button (yes, very inconvenient). The latest incarnation of these key fobs is that they will automatically unlock your vehicle as you approach it. The key fob sends a signal to a receiver in your car, telling it to let you in.
Once you’re in the driver’s seat, you simply press the ignition button to start your car; Your keys can remain in your pocket or purse. It’s hard to rationalize this feature as a “must have,” but it’s still impressive.
Welcome To The New World
The automotive world has changed dramatically over the past several years. Not only are vehicles designed and built better, they come with a host of exciting new features that promise to make our driving experience safer, more enjoyable, and convenient. When the time comes to retire your old vehicle and buy a new one, some of these features may no longer be optional.
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