With the growing demand for connectivity, connected cars are set to become an integral part of our lives. By 2027, the market is expected to grow to over $215 billion.
Connected cars are not only meant to be safer and less harmful to the environment, but capable of redefining mobility as we know it.
Here are five benefits that a connected car will bring us in the future:
1. Personalized and tailored experience
Every driver is different, so it’s no surprise that we each want something different from our driving experience. One driver may want a real-time overview of their planned route or fuel consumption, while others may be more interested in listening to a podcast.
2. Vehicle-to-vehicle communication (V-2-V)
Connected cars can capture a wealth of information that can be shared and used by other drivers. From intelligence on traffic and road conditions to speed limits, V-2-V communication allows this data to be exchanged wirelessly from one connected car to another.
With this information, drivers or self-driving vehicles can make more informed decisions about their routes and take action to change course. In some cases, it can even help reduce accidents.
3. Internet connectivity on the go
A McKinsey report found that connectivity features are becoming increasingly important to consumers. In fact, 60% of people would completely switch car brands if it meant they could have more connectivity in the vehicle.
As of September 2019, and in partnership with Netstar (a subsidiary of Altron), all Toyota vehicles (passenger and light commercial vehicles) in South Africa have the device rolled on the ground with on-board Wi-Fi capability. This feature allows drivers and passengers to be connected even when they are on the road.
Netstar Chief Executive Pierre Bruwer said the growth of connected mobility is accelerating in South Africa.
“Our partnership with Toyota South Africa is just the beginning, and we are also working on the power of connected devices in the commercial fleet sector to enable enhanced telematics and business opportunities. Consider for a moment a small business owner with a connected fleet. Drivers will be able to facilitate online customer payments with portable payment devices. Suddenly, your tracking device becomes a communication, telematics and business enabling tool. »
4. Enhanced Security
A connected car can support an array of safety features, such as real-time tracking, automatic SOS calls in the event of an accident, and cybersecurity updates. With these enhanced safety features, connected cars will be able to warn drivers when they enter an area known for smash-and-grabs, for example.
Bruwer said the real-time data enables instant alerts to any threat to the driver and occupants. “At Netstar, we also use algorithms to predict future danger zones based on trends and data analysis. This way we can stay one step ahead of criminals.
5. Geofencing for younger or less experienced drivers
Geofences are invisible borders on a map that limit where connected cars are allowed to drive. Vehicle owners can set these limits to ensure that younger or less experienced drivers do not travel beyond these boundaries.
If the car is driven beyond the set limits, the owner will be alerted so they can ensure the driver gets back on the road.
More and more connected car features are being explored every day, demonstrating just how integral connectivity is to the future of mobility. And with an advanced connection, you get real-time peace of mind.
Source: Faith Davids / [email protected]