Technology in vehicles is rapidly advancing. Over at GottaBeMobile, we often discuss these technologies. For example, Adaptive Cruise Control is a great way to avoid road rage. Some of this technology is quite expensive because it is not commonplace in new vehicles. But if a new vehicle is in the future, we believe there are some must-have technologies that should not be skipped on the order sheet.

1. Rear-View Camera System

Some rear-view camera systems are pretty basic; a camera and a screen. Others can be quite complex, like on the Mercedes-Benz ML350. The system shows the rear of the vehicle, like a normal camera. It also provides lines showing which way the vehicle is pointed. In addition, it has lines in the direction the vehicle is going to go based on steering wheel position. Lastly, it has an object detection system that will detect items (and people) and prevent the driver from running them over.

Rear-view Camera Technology

The 2013 ML350’s rear-view camera system.

2. HID or LED Headlights

For decades headlight technology did not move anywhere. In the past decade or so, it has jumped leaps and bounds. Even though it used to be a luxury car-only option, advanced headlights are even available on the 2014 Toyota Corolla. HID and LED headlights shine much brighter at night, making obstacles like safety workers and deer much more visible. As an added benefit, most police cruisers have reflective logos on them, and HID lighting makes them also shine bright in the night.

Headlight Technology

The 2014 Toyota Corolla LED headlights 

For those living outside a major city, the headlight technology is more than just a nice look, but a genuine safety feature. With it so easily accessible on so many vehicles, it is an option that should not be missed.

3. Keyless Entry and Drive

Technology is great. A vehicle can be purchased today at every price point that does not require a key to be in the ignition to start it. The driver approaches the vehicle, grabs the door handle, and the doors unlock immediately and the driver has access. To then start the vehicle, the driver just has to press the brake pedal and press the start button.

Keyless Technology

Proximity key (Image Credit: Pond5).

Not having to take keys out of a pocket, especially when in a hurry of if carrying something, is great. Other added benefits of this system is that the car knows if the keys are in the car. Because of this, it is virtually impossible to lock keys in the car.

Some luxury vehicles even do unique tricks when the driver approaches the vehicle The 2014 Jaguar F-Type’s door handles pop out when the vehicle is unlocked. To see this in action, watch the first couple minutes of this video.

4. Mobile Phone Integration

Connecting a smart phone to a vehicle is easier than ever, and provides access to a litany of media and application support. Full Siri integration will even be coming soon to the automobile.

Connecting a smart phone to the vehicle typically allows for hands-free calling and messaging, as well as access to all the music, podcasts and apps on the phone. Ford offers integration with Spotify. BMW provides direct control to many apps through iDrive. General Motors even supports Siri Eyes Free for slick iPhone integration.

Phone Integration Technology

iPhone integration into BMW’s iDrive system

This technology is available on almost every make and model of vehicle, and is something that can make driving safer and more enjoyable.

5. Air Conditioned Seats

We might be a bit biased here, but air conditioned seats are truly an awesome piece of technology. Many vehicles offer heated seats, which are fantastic in winter. In the summer, however, many seats get warm and sticky. Air conditioned seats prevent that from happening, and make the nice and comfortable to seat down in and drive. Some remote start systems will even activate the air conditioned seats when they detect the outside temperature is at a certain point.

Technology

Air conditioned seats activation button in the Buick LaCrosse 

It is an option that isn’t recognized until it is experienced. But once it is experienced it is difficult to drive a vehicle without it.

Final Thoughts

There is a lot of technology in the pipeline that is making the vehicle safer, more luxurious or more fun. Some of these technologies are prohibitively expensive, and confined to the highest-end vehicles. But the technology mentioned here can be ordered with almost any class of automobile. They are definitely something that should be considered when purchasing the next new car.