In-car internet is usually provided by mobile phone networks. Companies such as Novatel sell wireless routers using CDMA or GSM mobile networks that provide Wifi inside the vehicle. It is expected that every new car in Europe will have Internet connection by 2013. However, if this service costs a great deal extra, consumers may not want to pay for it since most have smartphones that connect to the Internet.
Drivers Give Opinions
A survey was taken of U.S. drivers to determine the overall opinion about in-car Internet. Some felt it could become a driving hazard and may lead to an invasion of privacy since many systems track cars, but they also liked the safety and entertainment features offered.
Drivers are demanding from automakers an increase in digital technology inside cars, but this Harris Interactive poll gives another side to the story. Of the survey’s 2,634 respondents, more than three quarters said that in-car Internet causes distraction and is unsafe. More than half of those surveyed said that automakers are overdoing technology inside vehicles. Two thirds said they consider their car a quiet place and appreciate the time away from being constantly connected to the Internet.
Since driving records and location could be available to insurance companies, two thirds of the drivers surveyed said this would cause insurance rates to go up based on a driver’s record. However, the auto makers know it is illegal to share driver data without the driver’s consent.
The Auto Industry’s Opinion
The auto industry understands the potential safety issues and is looking to add Internet connection that has the least possibility of disruptions. If a phone is available inside the car, the driver has to take a hand off of the steering wheel and look at the display to see who is calling, which means taking their eyes off the road. If the phone is integrated into the car, the driver can push one button that will accept the call and open the speakers while turning down the radio. Dashboard touchscreens are also convenient and can help connect to roadside assistance.
There is Internet connectivity in all cars to some extent, but most manufacturers did not comment on the survey. BMW USA said they are glad drivers are concerned about driving safety and in-car Internet. They are researching the best and safest ways to incorporate the technology into their cars.
The auto industry points out that safety services such as OnStar tracks drivers for a reason. If the vehicle is stolen, it will be found immediately. Some car manufacturers include wireless routers with voice commands so drivers don’t have to take their eyes off the road. In the Siri voice command system by Apple, the controls are on the steering wheel. Toyota’s Entune system offers the Bing search engine, OpenTable restaurant reservations and Pandora as well as cloud computing to stream news, music and entertainment to drivers.
Car manufacturers believe that technology in cars is here to stay and are finding new ways to make it safe for drivers to access. This may take some time while drivers learn the new systems and how they can benefit from connectivity while driving.
Australian Automobile Club provides Breakdown cover from $59 per year. With the advancements in technology in automobiles, make sure your are proected with
Roadside Assistance Australia’s first Nationwide Automobile Club.