The auto industry constantly develops new technologies, but this time they are pushing digital convergence at the heart of innovation.
Introducing connectivity and graphics capabilities to the dashboard can make the driver feel more in control of the vehicle. Intelligent, connected processors have the potential to revolutionize not just how efficiently we commute but also the whole experience of driving a car. Possibilities range from synchronizing your music and video library automatically as you pull into your driveway at night to augmented reality dashboards and displays.
Ford already has deployed an active park assist system in its Fiesta range of vehicles while Toyota and BMW are working on technologies that can identify objects in front of a vehicle and provide the driver with information such as relative distance and speed, and even offer assistance when passing other vehicles on the road.
Adding more efficient technology to a car makes it more attractive to consumers from a convenience and safety standpoint. For example, automated braking technology is mandatory for a 5 star rating from Euro New Car Assessment Program (Euro NCAP) that oversees crash-tests and provides consumers with an independent assessment of the safety performance of most popular cars sold in Europe. It involves a complex system which scans obstacles in front of the car and reduces the speed if it detects a possible collision which the driver can’t react to in time.
These mechanisms require embedded intelligence to perform the measurements and data analysis that allows them to report when a malfunction is detected under warranty so that a mechanic can be dispatched to your home address or for more severe matters, direct you to the nearest garage. Remote monitoring can also help to lower insurance premiums or stop the car in case it’s been stolen by simply pressing a button on your smartphone. 

Related: The Fast Lane of Innovation