Friday, 21 September 2007
Embracing automotive technology: another opinion
« Chinese automaker Brilliance reacts quickly to poor crash test performance | Main | Safer vehicles may prompt new tougher crash tests »
Whenever a new technological system or component reaches the automotive marketplace, the common reaction among consumers and journalists is to embrace that new feature. Items such as rear-seat entertainment, in-dash CD players, satellite- or DVD-based navigation, multi-zone climate control and others are appreciated for their respective functions. Which is why Kate McLeod’s recent piece over at The Car Connection on Ford’s new Sync entertainment/communication system is striking in its message.
McLeod recognizes the competence of Sync, and seems to appreciate the fact that Ford is including the technology in lower priced vehicles more likely to be purchased by tech-savvy young consumers. But after that, her enthusiasm cools. “Do I want to be driving on a road where other drivers - especially the very young drivers who are completely committed to connectivity - are checking caller ID or setting up a conference call instead of veering over the center line and into me?” writes McLeod. “Spare me - that's my prayer.” Indeed, many of today’s vehicle systems create “distractions with a capital D” in McLeod’s words. The article is worth the read.
Image: Ford media
[Trackback URL for this entry]