FASCINATING NEW AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY

• Pedestrian detection – Developed by Volvo pedestrian detection is a combination of technologies that can identify pedestrians and cyclist, thus aiding in the avoidance of collisions of vehicle versus pedestrians and cyclist in urban areas where these types of accidents commonly occur.
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW) - The most popular technology of 2014 is the Lane Departure Warning (LDW), utilized by most auto manufacturers in one form or other, the LDW alerts the driver when he/she crosses over a line without signaling first. The idea is to address driver drowsiness behind the wheel, unfortunately studies have shown LDW is not as efficient as expected.
• Intelligent braking – Acura’s RLX sedan has a “Brake Hold” button that allows the driver to keep the brakes pressed automatically for situations like waiting at a train crossing or at a signal light. Also known as “Lazy Brakes”.
• Semi-autonomous driving – Mercedes-Benz’s E-Class offers an Intelligent Drive system, the system at low speeds has the ability to take control, following heavy traffic even on curvy roads. If it seems that the driver is inadvertently crossing lanes the system will automatically correct the course, thus avoiding accidents. If needed the system can completely stop the car.
• Hot-stone massage – Mercedes-Benz all new 2014 S-Class features exclusive hot stone massage bucket seats. How is this possible? 14 tiny air bags inflate and deflate to stimulate the occupant's backside in a traditional, shiatsu fashion.
• Receding door handles – Tesla Motors’ all-electric sedan features receding door handles that retract when the car is locked or when the car is moving. Simply press the key fob unlock button and the door handles pop back out.
• Internet radio – Internet radios are becoming a mainstream technology featured in the infotainment systems of many new 2014 vehicles sold in Canada. The radios utilize the smartphone’s internet technology so  there is no need to launch the necessary app.
• Integrated shop-vac -  Here is a handy feature for the 2014 Honda Odyssey minivan. Honda partnered with the Shop-Vac company to develop an integrated  vacuum cleaner, just pull and turn on to vacuum  the min van from the small cavity under the pedals to the bottom of the trunk.
• Traffic signs recognition - In Europe this is already in use with Audi, Mercedes-Benz all with others that use front facing cameras to identify road signs. Combing that technology and information with the data contained in today’s navigation system the car can produce the speed limit information right in front of the driver in the middle of the information cluster.