Manufacturers Place Even More Technology into Newer Model Cars
Now that car manufacturers have begun releasing their 2018 vehicles, those looking for a first car or wanting to upgrade will discover some of the most advanced vehicle technology available. Not only is this technology improving safety, but some of it is aimed to make drivers and passengers as comfortable as possible.
High-Tech Safety the Factor in New Car Construction
According to the National Safety Council (NSC), there have been more than 18,000 traffic fatalities in the U.S. this year, 1 percent less when compared to this time in 2016. 459 people have died in car accidents in Colorado. According to a national insurance company, advanced car technology is not just for high-end vehicles anymore. State Farm notes that certain safety features, which were mostly in luxury vehicles, are now in a variety of new lower-priced models. These safety features include:
- Forward collision warning systems, which alerts drivers when they are getting too close to a car in front of them. Not only does this system sound a warning alarm, but some cars also have an autonomous braking system that will take over to avoid a crash.
- Adaptive headlights that move to follow the direction you are driving. For instance, the lights give you more visibility when going around curves. This technology can be found in vehicles made by Acura, Mazda, Mercedes, and Volvo.
- Blind spot detection, now available in many cars, which alerts a driver that a vehicle is in their blind spot. This technology helps a driver avoid an auto accident while changing lanes.
These are just a few safety features coming in a wider variety of 2018 models. However, if you are looking to own a 2017 car and not sure which brand provides the best safety features, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) released a list of their top safety picks for 2017. The list is vast and gives safety details on everything from minicars and midsize vehicles to large luxury cars and minivans.
Additional Features Blend Safety and Comfort
Vehicle technology is rapidly changing the driver and passenger experience. In 2018, new features take driving to a whole new level. For instance:
- Cadillac is introducing a semi-autonomous Super Cruise system that will allow both hands-free and foot-free driving. The cruise system, in addition to the existing driver-assistance technology, like adaptive cruise control and blind spot and lane monitoring, will take control of the car if necessary to avoid an accident. The system will give a series of warnings, and if the driver does not react, the self-driving technology will activate and make a controlled stop.
- Mercedes-Benz is coming out with a climate control package that offers heated or cooling seats and armrests, a massage function, ambient lighting, and an automatic fragrance dispensing system.
- Music buffs will want to check out Hyundai and Kia as they will offer Clari-Fi, a system that restores audio signals to full fidelity. If you use your smartphone for music, this system will scan your compressed audio files and when playing in the car, will correct deficiencies and create a dynamic, clear, and crisp sound.
- 2018 technology now allows parents, via CabinWatch, to observe kids in the back seat through embedded cameras. There are also dual-screen rear entertainment systems that can even stream live TV channels while on the road.
2018 vehicles have a lot to offer regarding advanced technology and newer car features. As always, do your due diligence and research manufacturers, safety features, and pricing before buying a car, new or used. Advanced safety features take priority over comfort-focused technology such as programmable seating and heating. Now that the most up-to-date safety technology is not limited to six-figure cars, ensuring you drive away with a vehicle both in your price range and fully secure is more than possible.