Innovation and technology are essential in the automotive industry, which is why automakers spend billions on research and development to create new technologies for their vehicles. Below, we’ll discuss some of the technologies that will drive the future of the automotive industry, from self-driving cars to 3D printers and more.
Self-driving cars
One of the biggest stories in the auto industry is the technology race to see who can build the first fully automated, self-driving passenger car. Most automakers are developing driver assistance technologies that provide radar sensors and machine learning systems.
It is a foregone conclusion for many that these developments in driver assistance will eventually lead to self-driving cars. Despite much hype and billions invested in research and development, the driverless car remains inevitable, but many believe it’s only a matter of time before our streets are filled with self-driving cars.
Augmented reality
Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that superimposes computer-generated imagery (CGI) onto a human perspective, like virtual reality without a headset, mixing the real world with CGI. AR technology is becoming more accessible and affordable, and many automakers are looking to incorporate it into their vehicles.
The future of AR in the automotive industry is practical. AR contains vital information in the driver’s field of view on the windshield. AR can offer actionable information directly to the driver, such as GPS directions and detailed terrain mapping, or even quickly point out road hazards to avoid. Industry experts predict that AR will be much more common in vehicles by the end of the decade.
3D printing
While 3D printers may not be a technology that many would associate with cars, they expect the technology to profoundly affect the future of the industry. The automotive industry currently uses 3D printing to quickly create 3D models and some custom parts, but many believe the industry is just scratching the surface of 3D printing’s usefulness.
As 3D printing technology advances, 3D printers may be able to create replacement parts for vehicles on demand instead of waiting for orders from manufacturers. Who knows, one day 3D printers could produce entire cars.
Regenerative braking
Another technological product that many believe will drive the future of the automotive industry is regenerative braking. Regenerative braking technology captures the kinetic energy generated during braking and deceleration and stores it in the battery as electrical energy.
Many electric vehicles (EVs) already use the technology, and even some hybrid racing cars in the Formula 1 racing series have adopted it. As the future of the automotive industry is electric, regenerative braking technology will be crucial to creating more efficient and powerful EVs.