Technology has advanced by leaps and bounds in the last several years. The same can be said for automotive-specific technology. We’re not just talking about entertainment and infotainment tech; though, of course, things like device-integration, wi-fi and touchscreen app-connect have come a long way, too. This article is about the all-new driver assist features that can be found on most new vehicles today. These features are just a hair’s breadth away from autonomous driving. Most are safety features, but some are simply helpful or convenient.
One feature you may already be familiar with is blind spot monitoring. Early versions of this technology included a visual cue - like a light on your side mirror - to alert you to vehicles that may be in your blind spot. While that is still true for many vehicles, the feature is now much more advanced. If there’s a vehicle in the lane next to you (and potentially in your blind spot), new blind spot monitoring technology can actually self-steer away from that lane. Similarly, lane keep assist will automatically steer your vehicle back into your lane if you start drifting over (and fail to use your turn signal).
Dreading rush hour? Tram Jam Assist automatically accelerates or brakes with the flow of traffic so commuting during rush hour is less of a strain on your feet and your brain. Adaptive Cruise Control is great for long drives. It automatically adjusts your vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead of it. Another safety feature is automatic braking. Have you ever been backing out of a parking spot and somehow missed that yellow concrete safety pole? Just me? How about zoning out while driving and almost bumping the car in front of you? If either of those things ever happened to you, automatic braking could save you the headache (and the money) if you actually connected with one of those things. Automatic braking, like the name implies, can stop your vehicle if it senses another vehicle or object in front or behind you. A similar feature is called Pedestrian Warning - which can automatically apply the brakes if it sense a person walking nearby.
Road Sign Recognition helps you keep track of the speed limit, upcoming stop signs and similar signage. It “sees” road signs and displays them, helpfully, on the driver’s dashboard/instrument cluster. Some vehicles are even equipped with haptic (vibration) or audible warning that is activated if the driver is not obeying the speed limit or entering a “do not enter” roadway.
There are so many new advanced tech features available, it might be time to consider a new vehicle. The safety features alone are worth the investment. Visit the Folsom Auto Mall today and test drive a new model to experience these futuristic features for yourself. View our new car inventory or contact us with any questions or to set a priority appointment.
?