It’s a new year, and that means it’s time to think about how our lives could look different over the course of the next 12 months. One of the largest areas of change may be in our everyday commute. If you’re looking for a new vehicle in 2015, keep your eye out for technological advances that could revolutionize your driving experience. Here’s a look at what technology to expect in dealer showrooms this year.
Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspots
New in 2015, OnStar with 4G LTE will be available on select models. This new technology allows you to use your vehicle as a Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing those in the car to check email, stream music and videos, and play games. Not only is the service up to 10 times faster than 3G service, but it’s also powered by your vehicle, so you don’t have to worry about your device’s battery. For more detailed information, check out this video from OnStar.
Active-Safety Systems
Toyota recently revealed their plans to move forward with autonomous safety features across their vehicle lineup. According to Automotive News, these features will include automated parking and headlamp adjustment, pre-crash braking packages and vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V)/vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communication.
The pre-crash braking systems promise to offer more advanced safety and performance than models currently available on the market. The system works by slowing or stopping a car before impact, softening the crash. With V2V and V2I technology, the vehicle’s computer is able to communicate with other vehicles and has sensors to help prevent accidents.
Lane Change Assist
In 2015, more vehicles will come equipped with lane change assist technology that aims to help drivers make more-informed decisions while on the road. Here’s how it works: When a driver turns on their turn signal, the system can quickly identify the activity of vehicles within the new lane. If there’s a car zooming along at high speeds, your vehicle will give a warning that it may not be wise to change lanes at this time.
Infotainment Software
There have been many technological advances over recent years with regard to in-vehicle entertainment. From navigational tools to satellite radio, the car stereo has evolved far beyond the simple systems of years past. With the convenience and mobility of media apps and storage, it was only a matter of time until vehicle technology advanced to incorporate smartphones. Enter Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, technology that allows you to integrate your phone with your vehicle, hands-free. This is designed to provide a safer driving experience, allowing drivers to make calls, navigate, enjoy music, and send and receive text messages without looking at your phone.
What technology are you most looking forward to in 2015? Share with us in the comments below!
Comment on this article
Comments
H. E. on February 27, 2015 at 9:18am
SOME WHAT SURPRISED THAT COMMUNICATION RANKED HIGHER THAN SAFETY!
Andrew91 on February 27, 2015 at 12:14pm
I have a 2014, is there any way I can upgrade to the new system? what would the additional cost be?
Ken on February 28, 2015 at 11:13am
None of the features you listed in your survey are important to me when buying a car.
Robert W. on March 1, 2015 at 12:04pm
ok
ahmed on March 1, 2015 at 5:53pm
I careless for the wifi orthe smart phone or lane change alarms. when driving ,,driving is #1 concern. so, the pre-crash braking is most important for a car .
Carol on March 2, 2015 at 10:13am
Looking for info
Dr. R. on March 5, 2015 at 2:40pm
My 2014 ATS is a sorry excuse of a CADDY it has NOTHING ....but the basics.......at this price it should have been equipped with the lane changer.... AND where is the CD player??
Stormy on March 7, 2015 at 8:05pm
For all of the vehicles they've had to recall due to the ignition switch problem, GM should do this: Eliminate the problem altogether! Instead of merely replacing the faulty ignition switch, upgrade the vehicle to a keyless ignition with push button start! Yes, it's not the cheapest way out; but it would go a long way toward showing that customer relations are important to people in charge of the corporation, 'bean counters' be damned,
Kenneth L. on March 7, 2015 at 10:08pm
Good info, thanks.
Edith C. on March 11, 2015 at 8:21pm
lane change assist would cut down on lane change crashes. Multiple times I just about got hit because they couldn't see you in a blind spot, or they were not paying attention to their surroundings. If they had lane change assist it would alert them.