Cargo: Measure and film
Hawk tracks performance
While most people take a car manufacturer’s word when it comes to acceleration time, a product such as Superchips’ new iHawk vehicle diagnostics system relies on those drivers who must see for themselves how good their car really is. iHawk features a LINQ module and accompanying iPhone app, which requires no tools and plugs into the car’s OBD-II diagnostic port where it measures and wirelessly transmits car-related data such as acceleration corrected for atmospheric conditions, real-time dashboard and data-logging records and diagnostic trouble codes with the ability to reset them. Information can be viewed on the iPhone with analogue or digital gauges and the ability to flick through multiple screens of data. This product also enables sharing ongoing results and findings via email and Facebook — a great way to surprise your family and friends by letting them know how much of a car geek you really are. $190; visit superchips.com.
Film your own chase scenes
The GoPro Hero 3 Black Edition is not a car gadget per se, but the fact that so many who buy this type of product test it out on their cars and upload results to YouTube suggests it belongs in the car gadget space. A miniature HD video camera in a waterproof housing with assorted mounting hardware capable of mounting it to the top, side or bottom of the car, the GoPro Hero 3 Black Edition lets self-made action film directors record their commute in 1080p. Weighing less than a pound, it captures video, sound and stills with an array of high-definition video options including 4K video, (a bit indulgent considering few consumer devices are capable of playing it). It features Wi-Fi control and a soon-to-be-released IS app to wirelessly control the unit. Popular among extreme sports practitioners, Hero 3 can turn a commute into breathtaking film, making John Frankenheimers out of anyone with the cash. $400; visit gopro.com.