Inspired Automotive Trends Taking The Industry By Storm
Over the past two years, the automotive industry has undergone something of a revolution. While the industry was impacted by the overall decreased economic activity in the country during 2018 and 2019, and was dealt a severe blow by the events of 2020, a considerable amount of progress has been made as far as car design is concerned.
Apart from new digital technologies that have seen cars becoming increasingly feature-rich and connected, vehicle engines have also become increasingly lightweight and powerful, thanks to the incorporation of cutting-edge metals.
Cars are more connected than ever before
One of the biggest automotive trends of the year revolves around increased connectivity. As 5G performance gradually improves, and with 6G development already underway, connectivity is promising to be a significant trend for many years to come. Connected vehicle IoT platforms will undergo major developments this year, with a strong focus being placed on in-vehicle marketplaces and V2G/V2V communication.
Manufacturers such as BMW are also leveraging the power of on-demand features that will see drivers subscribe to certain features, such as driver assistance systems and heated seats that are installed in the vehicle but remain dormant until activation.
Engines are getting a major overhaul
Current automotive trends are not only limited to increased connectivity. Engines are getting a major overhaul too, and traditional metals are often being swapped for more lightweight, high-strength options. Titanium, in particular, is being used more prevalently, especially in racing cars and high-end vehicles from manufacturers such as Porsche, Ferrari and Lamborghini.
The titanium screws, rods and fasteners used to manufacture valves, valve springs and connecting rods are not only lighter and stronger than more conventional materials, but also more resistant to corrosion, as noted by TMS Titanium (www.tmstitanium.com). This reduced weight not only makes the car more fuel-efficient, but faster as well.
All eyes are on autonomous vehicles
Although self-driving cars are no longer a new concept, the development of autonomous vehicle technology is being followed with very keen interest. After several delays, 2021 will finally see L3 autonomy being deployed.
This level of autonomy has been embraced by manufacturers such as Honda, Daimler, Toyota and Ford, and will see vehicles taking full control of driving functions under specific circumstances. Progress is also expected in the development of L4 autonomy. Up until now, only Waymo has gone beyond conducting trials, and has launched a L4 robo-taxi service in Phoenix, Arizona.
The spotlight will be on HWW features
In recent times many auto manufacturers have focused a lot of their attention on making their offerings increasingly eco-friendly. While going green is still a priority, health, wellness and wellbeing (HWW) features in vehicles are skyrocketing in popularity. Some of the most sought-after HWW features expected to make waves this year include built-in breathalyzers, pollution analyzers, massaging seats, and air purifiers.
The automotive industry is one of the fastest evolving industries in the world. Although transformation may seem to slow down as the technology becomes more advanced, the next decade is promising to change the way we utilize vehicles forever.
