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When it comes to today’s SUVs, cars, trucks, and minivans, electronic tech features are hugely important. These items are now an integral part of how you interact with your vehicle, as well as how your vehicle interacts with the cars around it on the road. Some of them serve as safety shields that you will hopefully never need to use, but that you can take comfort knowing are there. Others assist with parking and visibility.When you shop for a vehicle with these features, the ideal ones make things easier without causing driver distraction.
1. Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems
Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) refer to a set of electronic systems in vehicles designed to assist drivers in the driving process. These systems use sensors, cameras, radar, and algorithms to improve vehicle safety, comfort, and convenience by automating or enhancing various driving tasks. ADAS is a key technology for the development of autonomous vehicles and is already becoming common in modern cars. It can keep you a safe distance from the car in front of you, and can prevent your vehicle from drifting into another lane. It Automatically adjusts the car’s speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front. It can speed up or slow down based on traffic conditions.
2. Automatic Emergency Braking.
Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) is a safety feature in modern vehicles that automatically applies the brakes to prevent or reduce the severity of a collision. It uses a combination of sensors, cameras, radar, and sometimes lidar to detect potential obstacles or hazards in front of the vehicle. The AEB systems continuously monitor the road ahead for potential hazards such as other vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, or large objects. When a potential collision is detected, the system first provides the driver with visual and/or auditory warnings (such as flashing lights or an alarm) to alert them of the imminent danger.The warnings give the driver time to react and take control of the vehicle if possible.If the driver does not respond to the warnings, AEB may apply partial braking to reduce the vehicle’s speed and lessen the impact of a collision. This can be especially useful in situations where the driver is distracted or does not have enough time to react.
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3. Connected Mobile Apps/Digital Key.
Connected Mobile Apps and Digital Key are part of the growing trend of vehicle connectivity, which allows drivers to interact with their vehicles in new and more convenient ways using smartphones and other mobile devices. These technologies enhance the driving experience, improve convenience, and increase security.Connected mobile apps allow drivers to monitor, control, and interact with their vehicles remotely. These apps are typically provided by automakers and can be downloaded onto smartphones. It allows users to start or stop their vehicle remotely using a smartphone. This feature can be particularly useful for warming up the car in cold weather or cooling it down on hot days before entering. It helps to locate the vehicle in a crowded parking lot or an unfamiliar area. Some apps also provide a map with the car’s last known location and driving history.
4. 360-Degree Camera.
A 360-degree camera system, also known as a bird’s-eye view camera, is an advanced vehicle safety feature that provides drivers with a comprehensive, top-down view of their surroundings. It uses multiple cameras positioned around the vehicle—typically one on the front, rear, and each side mirror—to capture real-time footage. This footage is then processed and stitched together into a seamless 360-degree image or video displayed on the vehicle’s infotainment screen. The goal of this system is to enhance driver awareness and safety by eliminating blind spots and providing a clear view of potential obstacles, pedestrians, or other vehicles around the car, especially in tight parking situations or when maneuvering in narrow spaces.
5. Blind-Spot View Monitor.
A Blind-Spot View Monitor (BSVM) is an advanced safety feature designed to help drivers see objects or vehicles that are located in their vehicle’s blind spots, areas that are not visible through the standard side mirrors. This system provides real-time visual alerts on the vehicle’s display to warn the driver of potential hazards before changing lanes or making a turn.The system uses cameras, typically mounted on the side mirrors or rear of the vehicle, to monitor the blind spots on both sides of the vehicle.