Since the development of the first vehicles between the 1700s-1890s, modern automobiles, and their navigation have been through a stream of refined improvements and innovations. Currently, cars come with standard features that, in antiquity, didn’t exist or were a luxury. The car production and development business constantly finds new ways to integrate technology into cars to enhance functionality and comfort. It’s amazing to see how far car manufacturing and navigation have come and where technology is yet to take us. Some beneficial features have since been added to modern vehicles for increased practicality, including.
1. Window Tinting
Tinted windows are useful and protect you and your vehicle’s interior from UV radiation, averting damage from direct sunlight to the dashboard, upholstery, carpeting, stereo, and other electronics. Caranddriver.com says that the UV rays may be deflected by up to 99% while cooling the interior by up to 60%. Tinted windows also offer increased privacy by making it harder for your car’s interior to be viewed from outside. A safety aspect as your valuables are also kept from obvious public view.
2. Smog Test
In tackling the problem of air and environmental pollution, the vehicle industry has adopted and now implements smog tests, also known as exhaust gas tests. It’s a standardized vehicle test performed in certified smog test stations. It’s used to measure the exhaust emissions of different engine types. Haynes says that 32 out of 50 states enforce smog tests so that cars don’t pollute the air as they age. A clean exhaust system ensures clean air for you and your passengers, and its state alerts you when your car is due for servicing.
3. Navigation System
Navigation has come a long way from paper maps to the now very sophisticated navigation devices and services that allow you to explore any terrain with fewer chances of getting lost, with even turn-by-turn directions. These devices are convenient since an entire navigation system can be integrated into one device, and places with no service aren’t off-limits with the advent of satellite phones. Statista says that in 2023 alone, the navigation devices and services market is valued at $1.87 billion. Connected vehicles are developed to have navigation services that can be used for more than just getting directions but also to curb accidents and reduce congestion.
4. Dashboard Cameras
They’re also known as dash cams and are mounted on the dashboard of vehicles, designed to record images and sounds while your car is in use. It records details of occurrences both in the interior of your car and on the road. It provides real-time evidence in case of an accident. In navigation, webcams are useful as they deter careless and indiscipline driving. The dash cam is important for driving instructors and their trainees as it provides useful footage instrumental for driving lessons and analyzing the learner’s progress or lack thereof.
5. Electronic Gadgets Connectivity
Modern vehicles have connectivity technologies that integrate your vehicle’s audio system with your smartphone. This makes it very convenient in case you want to use your smartphone without the hustle of handling it while driving. You can use voice commands to call or send text messages and play music with other voice-enabled Apps, thus enhancing your travel experience by giving you the luxury of joining meetings, communicating, and enjoying your entertainment.
6. Electrification and Automation
Although not widespread in use yet, electric vehicles are gaining popularity due to their benefits environmentally and innovation in battery technology. Self-driven cars are now possible and promise a safer future due to their specificity in speed regulation and navigation, enabling efficiency and accuracy in travel. This has been enabled by the advancements in artificial intelligence, sensors, and machine learning.
Vehicle development and navigation have cascaded the witty corridors of advancement. They have evolved to offer luxury, utility, and even near sci-fi features. The industry is almost certain to become more detailed, precise, and more convenient for the individual user, who, in our privileged position in this age, stands a chance to enjoy most of those amazing features.
Source: Cosmo Politian
