Did you think cutting-edge car tech was only available in luxury car models or futuristic concept cars? The kind of tech you see at auto expos but never actually drive? But that’s not really true. A lot of the game-changing car tech you thought was “next-gen” or too expensive to own has already been built into the cars we drive every day. You probably already have access to this tech, but don’t really know it. That is, if you’re not still driving a vintage car from a decade ago! Once you’re clear about your car’s capabilities (and how to use them), you will be able to seriously upgrade your driving experience.
That’s why we take a look at tech features your modern car might already have—and why they’re worth paying attention to.
Table of Contents
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Navigation Tech with Real-Time Traffic Updates
- Smartphone Dashboard Integration (Apple CarPlay & Android Auto)
- Systems That Monitor Tire Pressure
- Final Thoughts: Tech That’s Hiding in Plain Sight
Adaptive Cruise Control
If your car has adaptive cruise control, it means that your vehicle will automatically adjust its speed to keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. Essentially, you will be able to control your car speed without constantly having to keep your feet on the pedals. I didn’t realize I needed this—until I was on a long drive to Fujairah.
Want to know why this is important?
- You don’t get as tired on long drives
- Cruising down the highway will be smoother and safer
- This is a particularly useful feature in stop-and-go traffic
Automatic Emergency Braking
This is a feature in your car that operates in the background. It’s quite possible, you may not have noticed it if you haven’t been in a near-collision situation. It is meant to stop your vehicle in time to prevent it from colliding with the vehicle ahead. It involves your car sensing that a crash is imminent, but you haven’t taken any steps to stop it. It then takes charge and does the braking for you.
Wondering why this feature is imperative?
- It gives you additional protection during unexpected road incidents
- This feature in modern cars is what prevents rear-ending accidents from happening more often
- This is a particularly practical feature to have when driving in the city
Navigation Tech with Real-Time Traffic Updates
If you’re someone like me who only depends on my phone for directions, you should know that cars now have built-in navigation systems that offer much better functionality than before. The navigation System in the latest cars can give you real-time traffic updates, rerouting options, and even hazard alerts. This ensures you will not have to keep switching between apps for various kinds of driving updates.
Why is this vital?
- It ensures you keep your eyes on the road
- You will be able to find faster routes to your destination
- The navigation system is seamlessly integrated with your car’s display
Smartphone Dashboard Integration (Apple CarPlay & Android Auto)
Most of the newer cars have this feature, and you should make the best use of it. Integrating Apple CarPlay or Android Auto into your car dashboard makes using your smartphone when driving extremely convenient by converting your dashboard into an extension of your phone. This allows you to take calls, access your favorite playlists on your phone, and get directions—all without taking your hands off the wheel or your eyes off the road.
Why is this crucial?
- It prevents you from getting distracted by your phone when driving
- You get more intuitive infotainment
- Makes it possible to sync your digital life with your driving
Systems That Monitor Tire Pressure
The tires are often the most forgotten part of your car, and tend to be completely ignored until there’s something wrong with them. With the Tire Pressure Management System (TPMS) you will receive alerts when your tire pressure falls. This is extremely helpful in avoiding blowouts, improving fuel efficiency, and extending tire life.
Why does this system count?
- It prevents your car from having tire-related breakdowns
- It greatly improves your car’s safety and fuel economy
- You save money on premature tire wear
Final Thoughts: Tech That’s Hiding in Plain Sight
The truth is, you don’t need to wait for that futuristic concept car to enjoy smarter, more convenient drives. A lot of the tech that’s reshaping road safety, comfort, and convenience is probably already in your car, whether it’s Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking, Navigation with Real-Time Traffic Updates, Smartphone Integration through Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, or Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems. All you need to do is just know it’s there.
So the next time you slide into the driver’s seat, take some time and explore everything your car can do. You could be surprised by how much your car is already doing to make your drive smoother, safer, and more convenient.
