Cloud computing, electronic components and more affordable mobile Internet connections available everywhere should lead to many changes in the automotive industry in the coming years.
The internet is already present in many cars in the form of GPS but it’s nothing compared to what manufacturers are preparing.
“Connected technologies make more interesting vehicles, but the main goal is to invent new ways to drive,” says Magnus Lundgren, head of cloud services for connected cars at Ericsson.
Among the innovations to come, there are many small additions that are intended to improve the user experience. An electronic key could for example be used not only to unlock the door if you lock your keys inside, but also to allow companies to deliver things directly into the car (groceries for example). An automated parking payment could possibly be located in cities.
Other innovations have a much greater impact by greatly increase vehicle safety. In Sweden, Volvo is testing a system for detecting ice on the road and sending it to the city so they know where to send salt trucks first. Warnings can also be sent to other drivers.
The Autonomous Car
Autonomous car technology is being developed at the moment by companies like Google, but also by auto manufacturers like Volvo. Over the next few years people will be able to be driven by their vehicle without any human intervention.
“It will be a very long process,” believes Klas Bendrik, director of information technology for Volvo. It can also be expected that the technology deployment will take place in several stages. Look for certain, easier routes to get it first.
“Are consumers are ready for this kind of car? Yes, they are, “says Bendrik. “And if they are not, they will be tomorrow if we are to believe all the technological changes that are occurring now around us in society.”
Source: http://journalmetro.com/opinions/vie-numerique/653967/voitures-connectees-vous-navez-encore-rien-vu/
