Understanding security features on modern vehicles
Collaborative Post
Modern car security features are immense and plentiful.
When an older, more experienced driver steps into the cabin of a new car, the features on offer can cause immediate overwhelm! Until the mid-21st century, most cars only featured basic radio controls on the dashboard.
And while these new upgrades might first seem like charming extras, many play an important role in keeping drivers sage. From driver-assistance systems to anti-theft devices, here are the features worth knowing about for extra peace of mind behind the wheel.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
Collectively known as ADAS, these are driver-focused technologies found in most modern vehicles. A few of the most widely used include:
- Automatic Emergency Braking: Stops vehicles with immediate effect when an obstacle is detected in front of the bonnet. This helps to prevent accidents and collisions with pedestrians, especially in built-up areas.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Cruise control allows drivers to maintain a consistent speed, and some cars activate brakes to facilitate this. It improves safety and consistency on various road types.
- Lane Assist: Uses sensors to detect road markings and automatically centre the vehicle within the lane. This combats fatigue and improves safety on high-speed carriageway and motorways.
- Intelligent Speed Assistance: Helps to adjust the speed automatically according to driving conditions, compensating for any slower reaction times and improper situational awareness.
Fatigue and drowsiness detection
Modern cars also include systems that monitor and protect the driver’s health.
Using advanced sensors above the steering wheel and near the rear-view mirror, these features can detect signs of fatigue or distraction. These may include excessive or repetitive movement of the eyes, head or neck.
If these metrics are detected, alerts will be issued to the driver. These can be audible warnings or haptic feedback, like vibrations, delivered through the steering wheel. This is particularly useful for older drivers who may be experiencing delays in their reaction times.
Integrated and dash cameras
Cameras in cars offer so much more than just accident prevention. Parking cameras to the front and rear, for example, allow for smooth and error-free manoeuvres.
Meanwhile, dash cameras are invaluable for drivers of any age. They deter theft, assist in dispute resolution after minor collisions, and can even enable 24/7 surveillance if they’re hardwired into the car.
Cameras make motoring feel more assured for anyone who might lack confidence. In fact, a combination of both front and rear dash cams help drivers feel more protected during and after driving.
Theft deterrent and recovery
Finally, it’s worth knowing about the devices that could help to prevent car theft and damage too. Some of these are optional, while others come factory-installed on newer vehicles. They include:
- Steering-wheel locks. These may be required for premium cars under certain insurance policies.
- Immobilisers, which prevent unauthorised access to your car. They prevent the ignition from starting unless it’s connected to the key.
- Tracking technology including GPS, which can be manually installed by the driver. This provides extra peace of mind in urban areas and when the car needs to be parked for a long time.
These modern features are rapidly turning into necessities. Equipping your car thoroughly delivers protection from hazards, crime, and accidents that otherwise might’ve been caused by the driver.
Photo by Amador Loureiro on Unsplash