Each year, industry leaders and start-up companies alike introduce new technology and change the trajectory of the automotive world a little more. Here at Protech, we stay ahead of the curve and keep roads safe by keeping up with the newest ADAS innovations and adapting our services accordingly. From remote parking assist to exit warning systems, our technicians will remain the industry leaders on scanning and calibrating new automotive technology in 2020 by researching, learning and utilizing the systems and standards associated with these new features. Let’s take a look at some of the most exciting innovations to arrive with the turn of the decade.
Hyundai Remote Smart Parking Assist
Since the first automatic parking feature was released several years ago, carmakers have been working to advance and improve upon these Intelligent Parking Assist Systems (IPAS). The systems have become so advanced that drivers no longer need to steer the car to park. However, while you don’t need to touch the wheel, you do have to be in the car—until now. Hyundai’s newest innovation, remote smart parking assist, enables one’s vehicle to park itself automatically while the driver can stretch his or her legs outside. You’ll need to be nearby, but this technology proves that autonomous cars aren’t far away.
Ford Satnav Breadcrumbs
If you frequently find yourself taking the road less traveled, you know how easy it can be to get turned around. Fortunately, for the off-roaders reading along, Ford has created a virtual roadmap to get you back on the beaten path. This new breadcrumb technology leaves a virtual pin roughly every 650 feet along one’s detour in order to supplement the car’s navigation system. This way, when the driver is ready to return to the road, pinpoints can easily guide them back on their route.
Head-Up Displays
You’ve heard the expression, “eyes on the road,” but very few realize that common car features require the driver to look away. Even just glancing down to check the speedometer or fuel gauge can be dangerous to drivers and those on the road around them. For years, automakers have attempted to solve this problem with various display options. Head-up displays themselves are not new to 2020, but advancements on them are. The newest versions will show speed and navigation information on the dashboard and into the driver’s direct line of sight. One example of this is BMW’s display feature, a system that projects data directly into the driver’s line of sight, allowing drivers to keep their attention on the road and to process information up to 50% faster.
New Safety Systems
When people consider assisted driving systems, they typically think about the features that work while the car is in motion—blind spot warnings, backup cameras or lane keep assist. This year, however, innovators at Hyundai and Audi are considering the drivers’ safety even when the car is in park. Exiting one’s vehicle can be incredibly dangerous, especially in the city. That’s why this new technology will lock your doors if it detects cyclists, cars or pedestrians passing by as you try to exit your ride.
Hyundai Digital Key
We all know that feeling of getting ready to drive somewhere then realizing we can’t find the car keys. It’s even worse when you realize they’re locked inside the car. Luckily, this year Hyundai is creating a digital key via a dedicated smartphone app. With access to Bluetooth Low Energy communication, the safety and convenience of driving will go to the next level in 2020.
As we head into this new decade, the automotive industry is driving full speed ahead into autonomous vehicles. Soon enough, cars will have ADAS for every aspect of the driving experience, and frequent scans and calibration will become the new normal. As cars continue to become more and more advanced, so do the solutions that keep them working correctly. However, no matter how much technology changes, our purpose doesn’t. This year and every year, we’re committed to Giving Lives the All Clear.