I Work in the Auto Industry: 6 Exciting Car Features Coming in the Next 5 Years
Written by
J. Arky
Edited by
Carly Brashears
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The future of driving is now. The automotive industry is moving fast to keep drivers on the road with all the advanced upgrades, features, and tools that motorists will need for today, as well as tomorrow.
Some of these game-changing features may sound like science fiction. But experts who work in the automotive industry tell GOBankingRates that you can expect them in the next five years.
Before you get let down at the lack of hover cars, make sure you check out these incredible advancements on vehicles in the not-so-distant future.
(Can’t wait five years? Here are nine features your new car must have right now.)
Dynamic Holographic Dashboards
“Picture this,” said Ryan Waterman, the CEO of Independence Automotive, setting the scene: “A dashboard that’s not just a static display but a dynamic holographic interface. We’re talking about a futuristic blend of augmented reality and holography, where vital information seamlessly hovers in the driver’s line of sight.”
Augmented reality dashboards “…will project vital information, navigation cues, and safety warnings directly onto the windshield, seamlessly integrating with the driver’s view of the road,” described Rob Dillan, the founder of EVhype.com.
“This tech not only enhances safety but also enriches the driving experience with intuitive, real-time data overlay,” Dillan noted of the feature, which he expects to debut in high-end vehicles with wider adoption to follow.
“It’s not just about seeing speed or fuel levels; it’s an immersive experience that adapts to real-time conditions,” Waterman added. “Imagine having navigation prompts projected right onto the windshield or interactive controls at your fingertips. This tech is not just about utility; it’s about transforming the driving experience into something truly extraordinary.”
Waterman explained that “Within the next 5 years, we anticipate this cutting-edge dashboard tech to debut in premium electric vehicles, setting a new standard for in-car displays.”
Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) Communication
Dillan gave an overview of the coming technology by saying that “V2X technology enables vehicles to communicate with each other and with infrastructure, improving traffic flow, reducing accidents, and enhancing autonomous driving systems.
“Some researchers anticipate that in the coming years, over 10 million vehicles will possess short-range V2X communication capabilities with cellular connectivity, out of a total of 346 million vehicles,” Dillan said of the implementation in forthcoming vehicles.
Biometric Vehicle Access
“Bid farewell to traditional keys and fobs,” Waterman said. “The future lies in biometric vehicle access. Imagine a car that recognizes you the moment you approach, unlocking the doors and starting the engine based on your unique biometric markers – be it facial recognition, fingerprint scans, or even iris authentication.”
“Future vehicles will use biometric data for entry and personalization, adjusting settings like seat position, climate control, and infotainment preferences automatically,” agreed Dillan.
Dillan went on to explain that “This technology offers a new level of convenience and personalization (Luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz and Lexus have already incorporated biometrics for security and certain payment functionalities.)
“It’s not just a matter of convenience; it’s a leap forward in personalized security. This technology ensures that only authorized individuals can operate the vehicle, adding an extra layer of protection,” concluded Waterman.
As far as when biometric access will be available, Waterman highlighted that the “standard feature in luxury and high-end models within the next 5 years, gradually trickling down to mainstream vehicles.”
Adaptive Smart Windows
Waterman advised drivers to “say goodbye to traditional tinting and hello to adaptive smart windows.”
“These windows intelligently adjust their tint based on external conditions, providing optimal visibility and comfort for the occupants,” said Waterman. “Whether it’s bright sunlight or a sudden downpour, the windows adapt in real-time, minimizing glare and maximizing visibility. This not only enhances driving comfort but also contributes to energy efficiency by reducing the need for air conditioning in harsh sunlight.”
“Look out for this feature in mid-range electric vehicles within the next 5 years, offering a blend of functionality and eco-conscious design,” Waterman told GOBankingRates.
Solid State Batteries
“Solid-state batteries promise higher energy density, faster charging, and improved safety over traditional lithium-ion batteries, potentially revolutionizing EV range and usability,” Dillan said.
Dillan predicted that these batteries are “expected to hit the market by 2025, initially in electric luxury cars, before broadening to more accessible segments.”
Autonomous Driving Advances
Pretty soon, you might not even need to drive your own car, according to Dillan.
“Enhanced autonomous driving capabilities, beyond current Level 2 systems, are set to offer near-full autonomy (Level 4) in certain conditions, thanks to advancements in AI, machine learning, and sensor technology,” Dillan explained.
When can you see self-driving cars on the road as a regular occurrence? “Expected in premium models by 2025, this tech will gradually permeate mainstream markets, offering safer, more efficient driving experiences,” predicted Dillan.
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