Retailers are capitalizing on motorists’ desire to drive safely. In response to recently-passed laws, and increased public awareness, consumers are showing an interest in technology that helps them navigate the roads safely.
Companies like Car Toys have taken notice. Car Toys has launched a safe-driving campaign, complete with a demonstration vehicle called the Getaway Car, equipped with all the latest and greatest safety gadgets.
The Getaway Car, a 2010 Honda CRV, made an appearance Aug. 11 in Federal Way. The vehicle features technologies such as hands-free control, backup cameras, voice recognition, real-time traffic updates and more. The technologies help ensure drivers, other motorists and pedestrians are protected when on the road.
The gadgets are becoming more popular, Car Toys spokeswoman Jamey Starkey said.
“I certainly think a greater number of individuals are paying attention to their availability,” she said.
The gear
The Blue Ant S4 and Parrot MK19200 are wireless Bluetooth systems. The Blue Ant is a portable Bluetooth enabled speakerphone, which allows a driver to connect multiple phones at once. The Parrot is a hands-free Bluetooth system complete with a high-resolution color screen and car audio system syncing.
The Mobileye N270 is a product that has yet to hit stores. It features sensors that help prevent collisions. The sensors sound when drivers follow too closely to the vehicle ahead, as well as when the vehicle is drifting in its lane or when a pedestrian interferes with the vehicle’s path. The Audiovox LCDM42 eliminates the need to adjust the rear-view mirror while driving. The mirror includes a 4-inch high-resolution monitor located in the left corner of the mirror. A video source can be connected to allow parents to view kids in the backseat without adjusting the mirror away from traffic. The technology can also be coordinated with a back-up camera so the driver can see obstacles behind the vehicle or be assisted with back-in parking.
The Escort is a GPS tracking system. The technology lets motorists or parents of teen drivers set perimeters and speed limits for the vehicle. When the vehicle travels outside the perimeter or exceeds a certain speed limit, an alert is sent. If the vehicle is stolen, the owner will have updated information as to where it is located.
Clifford, also known as Directed DSM100/Directed MATRIXR57, turns a driver’s iPhone into a mobile remote control. A motorist can start the vehicle using the phone. Even while on vacation, a motorist can be alerted if the vehicle’s security alarm sounds.
The Kenwood DNX9960 is the ultimate aid to driver safety. The device, complete with a touch and voice-activated screen, is installed in a vehicle’s dashboard. It features all-in-one navigation, hands-free controls and entertainment options. Garmin navigation provides step-by-step driving directions and real-time traffic alerts. A built-in Bluetooth allows for hands-free calling. Access to music saved on iPhones and iPods is available for drivers. The Kenwood can transcribe and send dictated text messages, as well as read received text messages. It can also be used in conjunction with a back up camera to display, on the Kenwood’s screen, a live view of what is behind the vehicle.
“This is the big bad boy,” Car Toys marketing manager Rachel Bermudez said.
The technology ranges in price and everything can be added to new or older vehicles, she said.
Future of driving
The gadgets take a while to get used to, but are meant to eliminate a driver’s tendency to multi-task, Starkey said.
“In multi-tasking, they aren’t being safe,” she said.
The hope is that the technology will become standard for drivers and they won’t think twice about installing gear that helps them drive safer, she said.
