It seems like every day we see major automakers, as well as top companies, reveal their prototypes and models of new electric and autonomous vehicles. Companies like Tesla, Nissan, Google, Uber and Amazon are said to be leading the charge, but they are all on the hunt.
Companies are increasingly trying to get ahead and jump start the changing automotive industry. An industry that many believe is shifting from the motor oil engines we have today to fully electric and driverless. This is happening abroad as well, China seems to be the overall industry leader.
China buys and produces more cars than anyone in the world. And they’ve already doubled the number of electric vehicle sales compared to the United States, largely due to government promotion and the benefits you receive from buying and using these vehicles.
The rise of driverless vehicles is made possible by the amount of money and time these giant companies are investing in the industry. Trying to create the perfect model while battling each other for the top spot.
Driverless vehicles are believed to be almost 100% safer than those with a driver behind the wheel. Humans are easily distracted, often speed up, and make costly mistakes on the road. Major companies are now trying to create the perfect combination of autonomous security features, better technology, and a more recreational experience.
An unknown winner in all of this will be the entertainment industry. The goal of driverless cars is to keep more people safe on the roads. So, on your next road trip, when you no longer have to worry about driving or directions, what will you do?
Some of us can sleep, some of us can read or grade papers, but the truth is most of us will now be watching TV or a movie or even playing a game system. Technology has advanced so much in recent years and it will continue to expand. New technology will keep us connected to our cars so we can enjoy a long road trip with some dim lights, comfortable chairs, and movies, all while traveling in your own car.
General Motors has just revealed its new service called Marketplace. This new service will allow you to use your touch screen in the car to access various services such as food, entertainment, gasoline and even hotels. GM continues the trend toward more connected cars, something we’ve already seen with the addition of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to many new vehicles.
The Marketplace service features featured brands and deals, giving you easy access to your morning meal while you’re on the go. The system is set up for you to get in your car, start driving and select your order or book a hotel and then drive to your destination. The service will automatically route you to wherever you choose, such as the nearest BP service station.
This service will also serve as an advertising platform as well as a race for companies to get their product and logo on their touch screen. Several companies like Wing Stop, Dunkin Donuts, and TGI Fridays are reportedly all up now.
The drive for driverless cars will open the door for the entertainment industry and allow it to blend in with the auto industry. Presumably, the two would come together to be able to offer TV, movies, sports, games, etc. to each and every driverless vehicle on the road.
The possibilities and benefits are endless for the scope of these new features to make the car more connected to the driver.
