Consumers want to improve fuel economy, ease connectivity
When it comes to advanced technology features for their cars, consumers are looking first for ways to improve fuel economy and next for connectivity in all its forms. Thats the major finding in J.D. Powers recent 2013 U.S. Automotive Emerging Technologies Study.
As for fuel economy, higher interest among owners this year may be because these technologies are already available in some non-premium vehicles, says the research company. Fuel economy indicators and the active shutter grille vent (which reduces drag and regulates air flow to reach the vehicles radiator when needed to save gas) are less expensive and more familiar than some other emerging technologies.
In the area of connectivity, more than two-thirds of vehicle owners in the study have a smartphone, and they want to be able to use it easily in their car. But software upgrades for technology that links devices in vehicles is behind introduction of new smartphones.
More than 80 percent of vehicle owners with smartphones are interested in buying an in-vehicle device or app link that would connect their smartphone to their vehicles infotainment system. And three-fourths of those surveyed said they are interested in natural language, voice activation systems. .
Hyundai says its looking at ways to help its customers browse the Web, whether directly on the cars screen or through a smartphone that connects to the screen, according to Edmunds.com.
A lot of people spend a lot of time sitting in their car, Brandon Ramirez, Hyundai Motor America senior group manager of product planning, told Edmunds. If they have a few minutes where they want to browse the Web, they can do that on their small smartphone or they can do it on a larger screen. If the new technology is offered on a future model, it would be available only when the car is parked.