Techno drive

Bells and whistles that could save your life

By jonathan masker

2007-10-09

I recently went to a dealership and bought myself a new car. It was a real process for me — I wanted to be sure I was getting my money’s worth. I wanted something that would last, be reliable and that wasn’t too big. I didn’t want anything fancy, but I didn’t want a car that was completely bare of today’s modern conveniences either. I wanted a sunroof, power windows and locks and a rear-view windshield wiper (it’s the little things that keep me happy!)

Most people want to upgrade their cars a bit. Some want shiny new rims and bigger tires. Some want a fancy stereo. Some people are a little more conservative and wish they had a remote starter in their car, so that when winter comes calling they can heat up their car from the house.

I’ve never really been into cars very much. I’ve never felt the need to modify them or anything. Lets face it — I’m not writing a technology article because I’m good at changing your oil. But recently I’ve discovered some interesting auto-technology that even I’m interested in: Most of the latest in automobile technology today is geared towards safety.

But get this — according to an article in “Newsweek” magazine, buyers often opt for an upgrade on the leather seats or sound system. When offered an upgrade on safety, most declined to try to save a few bucks. Leather seats don’t save lives, but here are some things that do.

REAR VIEW CAMERA SYSTEMS: These camera systems replace your rear view mirror with a slide out 3.5-inch color screen. There are cameras that are installed in your rear bumpers. This will prevent you from hitting things and assist you in parallel parking.
Car companies are beginning to offer these as a factory upgrade. You can opt for these when purchasing your vehicle or you can have them installed on your own.

BLIND-SPOT INFORMATION SYSTEM: Cameras are mounted on your side view mirrors that monitor blind spots and drivers are alerted with a flashing light if another vehicle is in a blind spot. This is an option on most 2006 Volvo models.

LANE-DEPARTURE WARNING SYSTEM: Cameras are mounted on the rear view mirror of the vehicle which monitor lane markings. Stray across the lines and your car will begin to beep at you. Available on some Infiniti models.

INTELLIGENT BRAKE ASSIST: If a car ahead of you stops short, your vehicle will ask you to brake. If you do nothing, the car will brake for you. Available on 2006 Mercedes Benz models.

Although these enhancements are there to assist you in safe driving, nothing replaces an alert driver, seatbelts and paying attention to the road. Safety always comes first. Remember who is ultimately responsible for your life while driving in your car — you.

Jonathan Masker is a wireless solution expert and a self-proclaimed gadget guru. Reach him at jonathan.masker@gmail.com.