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These days, we're so used to tech features that we expect to find them in our new cars. Not too long ago navigation systems were a novelty while heated, cooled and ventilated seats were what you’d find in a Rolls-Royce.
Plenty of amenities found in most cars today were uncommon or simply not offered a generation ago. Not every tech feature (such as airbags) is a government mandate. Even without government prodding, automakers are vying to give consumers what they want including the following car tech features you can’t live without.
You know that certain technology has become universally expected when it goes by a three letter designation and everyone understands what you’re talking about. Antilock Braking Systems or ABS is not something you think about as you’re driving, but are very grateful to have when you’re braking and trying to avoid a skid. ABS is known by a number of different names including electronic brake-force distribution, electronic stability control or traction control, among others. Many of these systems work with other technologies including collision avoidance.
Nothing will save your life if you are hit broadside by a semi at highway speeds and are in a small car. However, you’re much more likely to be hit by another passenger vehicle and may survive the crash if your car is equipped with side curtain airbags. As of 2011, even many subcompact cars have this feature, one more way today’s vehicles provide improved head and upper body protection that were nonexistent a few years ago.
Forget GPS devices. Today’s car buyers expect to find a built-in nav system able to give them precise point to point directions. A bonus is when those systems list every nail salon and other retailers nearby. And even better: units providing 911 assistance and systems tied in with entertainment. Real-time traffic updates are “can’t live without” features for those in congested areas.
Most new cars have done away with ignition switches, enabling drivers to start or stop their vehicles by the push of a button. Add in keyless or push button entry and you have cars that no longer need keys. Forgetting the car keys is a thing of the past, but forgetting the code to open your car door is a new possibility.
Raise your hand if you remember when American cars were sold with bucket seats that didn’t recline. Thank the Japanese automakers for challenging GM, Ford and Chrysler to make these improvements. You can thank select Swedish and German manufacturers for making seats safe, too. Most cars offer multiple position power seats for the driver and front passenger, providing lumbar support and bolstered seating to make long drives something to be enjoyed rather than to be endured.
The carburetor, bane of car owners for many years, quickly disappeared about 20 years ago when fuel injection became widespread. Newer engines run more efficiently, using less gas and controlling pollution better. Today, gasoline direct injection and turbocharging allow smaller engines to produce more power while doing an even better job of delivering improved gas mileage and keeping emissions to a minimum.
A number of advanced technologies are beginning to appear in new cars, but have yet to reach “can’t live without” status. These include rear backup cameras, rear sunshades, LED head and tail light treatments, and a host of safety features ranging from keeping you alert behind the wheel to keeping your car on the road. Finally, in the not too distant future, self-driving cars may become a car tech feature you can’t live without—perhaps even if you would prefer not to.
Photo: morgueFile