Ninety percent of innovations in modern cars are based on
advances in electronics. Many developments enhance the perceptions
of drivers and help them make better decisions faster, thus keeping
them safer. Microtechnology is helping reduce the risk of losing
vehicle control. Stability control features help prevent rollovers.
An adaptive cruise control systems are in the works. They regulate
driving at low speeds. This is great in heavy traffic, and cuts
back on the driver's shifiting from braking to acceleration.
Biometric technology will facilitate automatically measuring the
comfort level of anyone in the vehicle, and helping make optimum
seating adjustments, and air heating and cooling adjustments. GPS
systems have obvious benefits. Other systems can now warn you if a
tire is deflating. We are, however, waiting for something more
intelligent and relevant than that "Check Engine" light, which
usually has nothing to do with the engine per se. Radio tuning is
already almost all digital, making hands-off tuning possible.
Built-in connectors for music players and cell phones are becoming
common. The customer will usually only pay for practical features
that enhance the driving experience and driving safety, so there
are some possibilities that may never be implemented except in the
most costly luxury vehicles. In the end, computers,
microtechnology, LCD's, LED's, and fiber optics have revolutionized
the automobile. This article is an edited and modified version of
the following news article:
http://www.theoaklandpress.com/stories/102804/bus_20041028013.shtml