It’s estimated that by 2030, the smart road market will be worth more than $110.5 billion. But while smart road technology is embedded in roads and IoT infrastructure, it’s in-car technology that’s currently driving innovation. Technology that helps to improve driving ability is making waves, and new cars are increasingly boasting features that are designed to improve safety and efficiency behind the wheel.

Blind Spot Monitoring

Blind spots are incredibly dangerous, and the larger the vehicle is, the greater the chances of an accident occurring due to a lack of visibility in a rearview or wing mirror. Blind spot monitoring was previously only available in commercial and heavy-duty vehicles, but it’s now readily available in sedans, SUVs, and coupes. According to a Consumer Report, blind spot monitoring is one of the top three features that buyers are looking for in new cars, and the tech can even be added aftermarket.

Lane Keep And Lane Departure Warning

Utilizing AI, cars that feature lane-keep assist ensure that the vehicle stays in their lane by making minor adjustments to the steering. In some cases, the car will alert the driver if they are drifting off course, and in others, the car will simply correct its steering. Lane departure warning is very similar, but it’s slightly simpler. The technology only warns the driver if they are moving outside of their lane, it doesn’t make any corrections.

Tire Pressure Monitoring

Tire pressure monitoring systems are designed to warn you if you have under or over inflated tires. The tire pressure is monitored and if there are any changes the system will alert the driver. This can help to reduce the chances of damages or a blow out and can improve fuel efficiency too. If you don’t drive regularly, it’s also important to note that gas has a shelf life and can last between up to six months. While there’s no warning light for gas going bad, it’s a good idea to note how long it’s been in the tank as it can affect the vehicle’s performance.

Automated Emergency Braking

Utilizing radar or cameras, automated braking stops the car without any action from the driver. This system works by measuring the distance between your car and the car ahead, and stops the car when it gets too close. The Highway Loss Data Institute says that this technology decreases the number of crashes by half and that it’s an integral in-car safety feature that should be made standard. Emergency braking not only saves the lives of drivers and passengers, but it can also save the lives of pedestrians too. If a pedestrian is picked up as an obstacle, the car will brake automatically and avoid a collision.
In-car technology is reducing accidents and road deaths and making driving easier, more efficient, and enjoyable. Whether a feature of a car or one that’s added in the after-market, this tech is on the rise. In the future, there are sure to be more in-car advancements that increase the safety factor of everyone on the road.