Having the ability and technology to access the “cloud” via a wireless Internet connection has opened up gateways for automakers to begin expanding their way of thinking. There are inherent features that go beyond the present use of the Internet inside the car. With the use of expanded data storage available, a car can now become a customized assistant connecting to not only a car owner’s home, but smartphone and computer, as well.
Here, is a perfect example; A car can already adjust handling and drive specifications of a driver on any type of route, instead of having the driver choose from limited modes such as relaxation or enjoyment. Or it could use a calendar to have the interior cooled or heated before drivers enter into their cars. Depending on the cloud for memory storage, rather than placing enormous amounts of memory storage in the car, it could enable these types of functions.
It does not prove feasible to carry around all that memory in one’s car. Storing date in the cloud can save space sparing drivers of clutter. General Motors luxury cars now have almost twenty-buttons controlling entertainment functions in their cars. General Motor’s CUE (Cadillac User Experience) touch screens decreases the twenty-buttons to only four-buttons. The system is capable of pairing up with up to ten Bluetooth-enabled mobile devices, MP3 players, USBs and SD cards.
Ford used the Evos plug-in hybrid idea to determine what cloud-based technology is capable of performing. Evos uses technology that is on the edge or just around the corner. The cloud exists along with other powerful technologies. There is no invention necessary for the technology already exists.
Automakers estimate that it will take approximately four to five years before applications beyond infotainment will begin appearing in cars. Potential uses include braking, steering and suspension characteristics adjusting the car to match the road conditions. Cars with global positioning systems that are connected to the cloud will always know where it is, and what is facing them up-ahead on the road.
Ford is currently experimenting with installing a heart-rate monitor embedded into the driver’s seat as a way in dealing with driver distraction. They are predicting that a car will be able to mute driver’s cell phones and turn off extraneous gauges when GPS, the heart rate monitor, steering, speed and suspension data to indicate a driver is traveling too fast on winding roads.
Toyota and General Motors are also developing specific functions for their cars with innovative technology using Internet access. Toyota is currently working on vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-road functions for their cars.
General Motors has unveiled the CUE system that will be debuting in their cars in 2012 in the Cadillac ATS sedans, SRX Crossovers and the XTSs. It will contain a touch screen that is similar to Apple’s iPad. GM’s OnStar system is also rolling out applications, including applications that allow Chevy Volt drivers preheat, pre-cool or recharge their cars with a remote control.
Some of these technologies will go into production and they will be used, and consumers are going to love them. There will of course, be a minority of consumers who will not accept these innovative technologies in cars but the wave of the future will not be hindered by the minority of consumers reluctant to embrace change.
About the Author: The article is contributed by Michael Clark. Michael can guide you in implementation of cloud solutions efficaciously. Visit his site for brand focus and 247 support experts.
