It seems like every day we see major automakers, as well as major 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 all are on the hunt.
Companies are increasingly trying to get ahead and give a boost to the changing automotive industry. An industry that many believe is changing from the motor oil engines we have today to fully electric and driverless. This is also happening abroad, China seems to be the general leader in the industry.
China buys and produces more cars than anyone else 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 pouring into the industry. Trying to create the perfect model as they battle each other for first place.
Driverless vehicles are believed to be almost 100% safer than those with a driver behind the wheel. Human beings are easily distracted, often speeding and making costly mistakes on the road. Major companies are now trying to create the perfect mix 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 that most of us will now be watching TV or a movie or even playing a gaming system. The technology has come so far in recent years and will continue to expand. New technology will keep us connected to our cars so we can enjoy a long road trip with a few dim lights, comfy chairs, and movies, all while riding 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 in many new vehicles.
The Marketplace service offers featured brands and deals, giving you easy access to your morning meal 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 go 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. Various companies like Wing Stop, Dunkin Donuts, and TGI Fridays are reportedly all up now.
The push for driverless cars will open the door for the entertainment industry and allow it to mingle with the auto industry. Presumably, the two would come together to be able to offer television, movies, sports, games, etc. to each and every driverless vehicle on the road.
The possibilities and benefits are endless in the scope of these new features to make the car more connected to the driver.