With CES 2012 come and gone, the tech industry is left in its wake of new devices, gadgets, gizmos, and software. Recently, the auto industry has become a major player in this biggest tech show of the year. And with laws tightening on the use of cell phones while driving and a continuing push for a more “connected” driving experience, auto makers have accepted the challenge of safely incorporating smartphones into their vehicles.
As customers demand that technology be increasingly found in the driver’s seat, automakers have been forced to balance this need with new safety features such as the ability to detect distraction or drowsiness in the driver. But they’re also paying attention to the safety effects of UX.
“You’re already used to using your phone,” said Paul Mascarenas, chief technical officer at Ford, in an interview with The New York Times, “We’re trying to create a seamless experience from your home or office into your car.” With a consistent user experience drivers will be less distracted by their devices, as they will not have to learn to navigate yet another digital system.
Technology within vehicles has become a key part of differentiation for automakers. Kia has muscled its way back into the auto industry and the minds of consumers with sleek body designs and a completely connected and technological interior. The previously low-budget auto maker has made a name for itself at CES with its Next-Gen Uvo2 system, initially debuted in 2007, to combat Ford’s Sync. Gone are the days of the Geo Metro; welcome to the age of Google Maps, park assist, crash notification and a slew of other techy necessities at a surprisingly reasonable price.
Ford, Chevrolet, Buick, Cadillac, BMW, and Mercedes are also taking advantage of technology to meet consumer demands for a more connected cockpit and an overall safer driving experience.
We want to know: Do you own a car with these advanced technologies? Tell us how you like it and would a “seamless user experience” help you be a safer driver?
At the CES 2012 was also introduced the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class 2013 which includes Facebook and Google Maps from factory. This could be a mistake, most of people tend to review their Facebook or Google on their SmartPhones every five minutes, now imagine them doing the same while driving? It doesn’t looks good. Cars with smartphone and all this gadgets included should only be sold to adult or qualified people, not to tech-freaks.