Thursday, June 2, 2011
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Remote Diagnostics, Premium Audio, Connectivity Top Auto Buyers' Wish List Remote vehicle diagnostics, premium audio systems and wireless connectivity top the list of 21 emerging technologies desired by U.S. car buyers, according to a study released last week. Consumers also are increasingly searching for in-car technology to simplify and enhance their lives, says the 2011 U.S. Automotive Emerging Technologies Study by J.D. Power and Associates. The study, conducted in May, polled 18,000 vehicle owners on their interest in 21 technologies before and after an item's price tag was revealed. According to the study, 86 percent of smartphone owners use the device in their vehicle. The two most common activities are receiving phone calls and obtaining directions. With local and state governments continuing to enact distracted driver laws, motorists are becoming more interested in technology that can legally enhance their in-car activities, J.D. Power found. The results of the study represent a valuable opportunity for automotive technology providers. But design and ease of use will determine the extent to which automakers can benefit from consumer demand for the technologies, the study's authors said. "The key for automakers and suppliers regarding hands-free technology, as with most technologies, is to integrate it into the vehicle in a way that is easy to understand and operate yet sophisticated enough to handle all of the tasks that drivers expect," Mike VanNieuwkuyk, executive director of global vehicle research at J.D. Power, said in a statement. "The engineering is extremely complex, but the driver interface has to be simple." Safety technology remains popular with shoppers. Remote vehicle diagnostics, a rear-vision camera system and blind-spot detection all placed in the top five technologies vehicle owners were interested in after seeing the price tag. "Technologies that can help prevent accidents by informing consumers of potential hazards that cannot easily be seen from the driver's seat are well-received," said VanNieuwkuyk. "These features allow consumers to stay focused on the road and drive with confidence." Although a wireless connectivity system ranked third on the list of most popular technologies after the market price was disclosed, it was one of the most well-liked among all age groups. J.D. Power said 57 percent of vehicle owners 18 to 25 years old were interested in a wireless connectivity system while 43 percent of consumers ages 57 to 65 were similarly interested. Said VanNieuwkuyk: "Consumers want to make use of their smartphones while driving, and most are willing to pay for the technology that enables this." (Source: Automotive News, 05/27/11) Click here to email to client
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