Tech Amazing

The great thing about technology is that it is always getting better. What makes technology so fascinating is the continuous upgrading aspect. Gadgets are becoming faster, lighter, thinner, and often, cheaper. Then there are some inventions that are just simply unbelievable. Here are some automotive goodies that are sure to get some attention in the near future.

Sign Recognition

Siemens VDO and other suppliers are working on systems that will read speed limit and wrong-way signs. The systems will reach the market in 2009 or 2010.

Chatty Cars

Cars that can talk can warn each other of danger ahead. Developers want to create a network on wheels that would monitor signals from brakes, steering and other systems so a skidding or stopping car can send signals to nearby vehicles. It will reach the market after 2010.

Cameras Instead of Mirrors

Video cameras mounted inside a small housing could replace sideview mirrors. The images could be displayed on the edges of the rearview mirror, on the instrument panel or on a heads-up display on the windshield. It will reach the market by 2010.

Face the Camera

A camera monitors the driver’s facial features. If the driver looks away from the road while the car is moving and the system detects something ahead, it will warn the driver and prepare the car’s safety systems for a crash. It already is available in the Lexus LS 460.

Bumper Bags

To make sport utility vehicles less deadly when they hit a lower-riding car, suppliers are working on what they are calling bumper bags. A car hit in testing by a sport utility bumper equipped with an airbag had reduced intrusion This means fewer injuries. It should reach the market after 2010.

Biometric Technology

This computer technology will recognize a person based on unique biological identifiers such as fingerprints, facial features and retinal patterns. It can prevent unauthorized use. The technology is expected to reach the market in 2011.

Vision Warnings

New systems now being developed use video camera technology to monitor the road while the vehicle is moving. The system then alerts the driver when the vehicle accidently veers out of the driving lane. No date has been given for introduction to the public.

Watching from Above

Nissan has introduced a system that offers the driver a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle and its surroundings. The feature made its debut in Japan and should be available here later this year.

Wake-up Call

Drivers who doze behind the wheel of a Toyota soon could get a rude awakening. An innovation constantly monitors for signs of sleep in the driver’s eyes and issues a warning if the eyelids get too heavy. The system soon will be offered in some models for Japan.

What will they think of next? There is no limit to technology.