More expensive European vehicles have traditionally lead the way when it comes to innovation, but the mainstream has caught up and cars are now bordering on intuitive.
Far too many people are hurt and injured around motor vehicles each year, but technology is ‘doing its bit’ to see that that number is decreased. While human error and accidents will always happen, the following should help.
Reversing cameras
Driveways are death traps and all too often New Zealand children are hurt and killed by vehicles reversing. There will never be a substitute for actually knowing exactly where your children are before you get in the car, but a reversing camera is the next best thing. The camera allows you to see what is behind you and is standard on many models of new car. Reversing cameras may also be retro-fitted. These cameras are also a godsend when it comes to getting into a tight parking spot!
Blind Spot Monitoring
Every car has a blind spot – but a monitoring sensor will alert the driver if there is another vehicle in the blind spot via a light on the rear view mirror. This is helpful when changing lanes or overtaking. The warning light lets you know to pause or check again before completing your manouvre. Along with blind spot monitoring, some vehicles are also fitted with a Lane Departure Warning system, in case drivers are tired or distracted.
Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD)
This clever innovation only kicks in when you need it. If your car is towing, or loaded in one particular area (heavy camping gear on one side of the fully packed boot for example) and you have to brake swiftly, the brakes will distribute more power to the heavy area of the vehicle, to be more efficient. Braking and stability control (where the vehicle senses a loss of control and takes over to regain equilibrium) is also useful in wet conditions or on tight corners.
Many of these features are now standard across all sizes, makes and models of vehicle. Fuel efficiency and emission control are better than ever before and these features will not cost more to run or impact on your fuel bill. They have been designed with safety in mind. Ask your dealer today.