The modern day vehicle has more technology and features than ever before. In the last 10 years there have been more changes than in the past 50 years when it comes to added features and safety. A lot of technology has gone into vehicles to make them more fuel efficient and more enjoyable on long road trips. New Technology in vehicles is going to continue to grow as manufacturers try to make the latest and greatest feature to set them apart from their competitors. Here are some new technological advances that some manufactures share and some that are specific to certain manufactures that we will be seeing in vehicles starting in 2021.

Apple Car Play and Android Auto

Today’s auto manufacturers are continually trying to make infotainment screens in their vehicles faster and more efficient. Some of these systems have limitations that cause drivers to revert to the use of smartphones as their infotainment. Apple Car Play and Android Auto allows manufacturers to bridge the gap between the limitations of their systems and smartphones. With Apple CarPlay and Android Auto it gives the driver a simplistic version of their smartphone on the vehicle’s infotainment screen. It allows the user to operate simple functions such as GPS, music, phone, and so much more through the infotainment system if the vehicle is equipped with it. Although when first introduced it was only available in higher trim levels most manufactures are including it into base level trim packages.

Backseat Reminders

In an attempt to combat the growing tragedy of children and pets being accidently left in vehicles with disastrous consequences, auto manufacturers have created a system to remind the driver to check the backseat before exiting the vehicle. The system works by recording whether or not any of the rear doors were opened before the vehicle was driven. Once the driver arrives at their destination the vehicle will alert the driver to check the rear seat before they exit the vehicle. The hope is the system will prevent tragedies of someone or something being left unattended in a vehicle. This system will begin to come standard on most vehicles starting in 2021.

Wireless Charging

One of the best features of new cell phones is wireless charging. Auto manufacturers are taking notice of customer love of not being tethered to charging cables and introducing wireless charging pads into new vehicles. They are usually found around or in the center console and come in higher trim levels or included in a technology package.

Variable Compression Turbo

Variable compression turbos are currently on exclusive to Nissan Currently. They started lift in the Infiniti QX50, and starting in 2020 will move to the Altima. The new technology does just as it sounds it has the ability to vary the compression ratio on demand dependent upon the power needs of the driver. This engine eliminates the give and take between power and fuel efficiency by offering a decent amount of horsepower and torque with fuel economy of just under 30mpg combined. Of course, with most new engine technology it is still currently very expensive coming in at nearly a $2,700 option.

Exit Warning System

If you live in a big city with lots of parallel parking spots this might be the feature for you. Ext warning is a system similar to blind spot monitoring. It alerts you to either vehicles or bicycles approaching from the rear to prevent you from opening your door and hitting someone or someone hitting your door. Since it is similar to blind spot monitoring it’s not really new technology it’s just being used in a creative way. Currently only offered in Hyundai and Audi vehicles, it is still early in its design and usage.

Electric Vehicles (performance and Truck)

With the need to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, electric vehicles have become a more popular option. But many people think they are boring or lack excitement. Manufactures are looking to change that but making electric performance vehicles and pickup trucks. Audi, Jaguar, and Porsche are creating performance electric vehicles that could possibly rival the gas-powered counterparts. This is possible because the electric motor used in the vehicles gives them the ability to deliver instant torque and they also have a low center of gravity. It is also this same ability to deliver instant torque that the idea of electric pick-up trucks has come along. With the delivery of lots of torque it will give them the ability to haul heavy loads with ease. Ford and Ram already have plans to produce such vehicles. The full capabilities of these vehicles are yet to be known but the ideas are endless, the only question is can they be as durable as their gas and diesel rivals.

Here at Go Powertrain we offer mobile vehicle programming to meet the needs of our customer in keeping vehicles up to date. It is now more important than ever to keep up with software updates to keep your vehicle running at peak efficiency. Many manufacturers are constantly updating with software patches to fix common problems and improve the customer experience. Check with us to see about scheduling an appointment https://go-powertrain.com/mobileprogramming/