Car technologies are constantly developing. Automotive OEMs and Tier suppliers must keep abreast of emerging trends to remain competitive while offering cutting-edge solutions.
Today’s high-end cars contain over 100 million lines of software code–more than Facebook or Windows Vista–and are predicted to revolutionize their respective industries by 2024.
Self-Driving Cars
Self-driving cars represent the future of car technology. Their ultimate vision is removing human drivers altogether by using cameras, sensors, incredibly accurate GPS positioning systems and software to detect and navigate their environment – including road signs, lane markings and traffic lights as well as keeping an eye on other vehicles in their path.
These technologies can also assist in the prevention of accidents and breakdowns by detecting mechanical issues before they happen. Startups like KonnectShift use IoT for fleet management with predictive maintenance alerts that help decrease downtime.
Self-driving cars have the capability of driving at a safe speed while communicating among themselves to avoid collisions, significantly decreasing traffic accidents (94% of which are caused by human error) while potentially helping decrease fossil fuel dependence as well.
Electric Vehicles
Automotive world is experiencing its greatest transformation since Henry Ford popularized mass manufacturing almost 100 years ago. This change is being propelled not only by extensive technological development, but also by social demands for more accessible mobility solutions that are flexible, personalized, and compatible with lifestyle needs.
Electric vehicles (EVs) reduce environmental impact by eliminating tailpipe emissions – an air pollutant linked to lung and cardiovascular issues- as well as their silent operation; in areas with heavy rush hour traffic, switching over to EVs may drastically change the soundscape of urban driving.
Technology in vehicles will continue to develop as cars serve as platforms for driver and passenger entertainment, offering access to novel forms of media and services while in transit. This trend will accelerate as car companies adopt new partnership models and embrace open software architectures; many will also start offering over-the-air (OTA) vehicle software updates and subscription packages that enhance features.
Fuel Cells
Automotive manufacturing is currently experiencing massive transformation, as eco, social, and technological trends drive manufacturers towards offering more than a metal box on wheels. New technologies such as 5G wireless broadband access, additive manufacturing technology, and artificial intelligence (AI) are helping spur product innovation, boost productivity and enhance the customer experience.
Car safety systems are evolving from passive to active technology that detects threats early, altering your vehicle’s behavior before reaching certain speed limits. This trend will likely continue in 2024 and beyond as car manufacturers add features such as autonomous emergency braking, heads-up displays and driver assistance systems that monitor the road and prevent erratic driving behavior.
Lithium-free sodium-ion batteries are another promising emerging technology for cars. These lithium-free sodium-ion batteries use no toxic materials, provide supply chain independence from China, and have longer service lives than traditional lead-acid battery technology. Clarios is pioneering this type of battery technology to power electric vehicles.
AI-Empowered Applications
AI plays a pivotal role in both product development and operations for automotive companies. AI helps reduce downtime through predictive maintenance by anticipating issues before they occur, improving safety while saving transportation companies money on costly repairs.
AI can also be leveraged in smart manufacturing to increase workflow efficiency and boost overall effectiveness. One example is Continental’s use of AI to generate virtual simulations of their products for testing purposes; using this technology they were able to redesign a seatbelt bracket into a one-piece design which is lighter and stronger than its original model.
Car manufacturers are exploring strategies for monetising software upgrades that improve performance and user experience, from enhanced performance to heated seat subscriptions. By taking advantage of tech trends like these, automakers can stay ahead of the competition and unlock significant business benefits.