Crash protection technologies now top consumersê in-car choice
Three of the top five technologies consumers most prefer in their next vehicle are related to collision protection, according to the J.D. Power 2015 U.S. Tech Choice Study. The three are systems for blind spot detection and prevention, night vision and enhanced collision mitigation. The other two technologies in the top five are a camera rearview mirror and self-healing paint.
The findings show growing consumer acceptance of the car backing up driver functions, such as braking and steering, said J.D. Power a step on the road to fully autonomous driving.
There is a tremendous interest in collision protection technologies across all generations, which creates opportunities across the market, said Kristin Kolodge, executive director of driver interaction and HMI research at J.D. Power. With the price of gas currently low, there is very little interest in energy efficiency technologies.
Across all generations, price is the most important consideration for technology. Even though their income may be lower, Gen Y buyers (born between 1977 and 1994) are willing to spend the most on technology, $3,703. The amount drops for each generation, with pre-baby boomers (born before 1946) willing to spend $2,067.
Another generational difference: Younger drivers prefer full self-driving automation technology, which performs all safety-critical driving functions and monitors roadway conditions. Pre-boomers favor lower levels of automation, such as traffic jam assist.
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