Speed on tech front
WHAT’S IN THE FUTURE
themercury.com.au
SUBSCRIPTIONS 1300 696 397 include dashcams and some project a video feed of your rear view instead of the conventional mirror. This is handy if you’ve packed the rear load area of the SUV or hatchback to the roof, as it allows you to “see through” the luggage.
IF you have the money to splash out on a new car, your technology options go to another level entirely. Autonomous cars may still be more than a decade away, but every year driver aids and safety nets become more sophisticated. Modern cars can steer you back into your lane if you drift, slam on the brakes if you’re going to hit the car in front and warn you if you’re getting tired. Here are some of the features that will become commonplace on new cars this year.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto have been a huge hit with car buyers, but most cars still require a physical USB cord to hook up your smartphone to your central screen. Wireless mirroring is available in some vehicles already, although it can still be glitchy. Wireless phone charging is also becoming more popular.
Mercedes has taken this tech to the next level by introducing its own version of Siri and Alexa. Simply say “Hey Mercedes, navigate to …” and it will load the destination you ask for. Be warned, though, some makers are way off the pace with this tech and can’t understand simple commands.
When voice activation works it’s brilliant, when it doesn’t it’s incredibly frustrating.