The automobile is a complex device consisting of numerous subsystems that must work in synchronization for smooth, convenient, and safe travel. Innovation, cost reduction, and productive efficiency have always been an integral part of the automotive industry. The ubiquitous assembly-line production system was first introduced by Henry Ford to make quality automobiles at a faster pace.
Today, the automobile customers are demanding a safer, more convenient, fuel efficient, and convenient experience. To achieve this goal, manufacturers are relying on onboard computers and complex software applications to improve all aspects of the functioning of the modern automobile.
Greener Cars with Automotive Software Programs
The era of blatant disregard of the environment by the automobile manufacturer and car user has ended. Today, customers are seeking greener and more fuel-efficient automobiles. Manufacturers too are recognizing the fact that excessive consumption of fuel is an unsustainable strategy. The transition from mechanical parts to electronic devices to software-controlled components has led to the creation of fuel-efficient cars.
Better Maintenance
Like any other complex machine, the automobile requires regular and effective maintenance to function in an efficient manner. Conventionally, the manufacturer focused on creating a good automobile, and the task of maintenance was delegated to the car owner. Today, car makers are using automotive software solution to facilitate easier, faster, and better maintenance. With connected cars set to become the norm, remote sensors and Internet of Things may make it easier for the car owner to focus on preventive maintenance as opposed to remedial repairs.
Improved Experience
The modern car is no longer just a machine that transports its occupants from one place to another. Rather, it has become a part of the modern lifestyle, and the quality of user experience has a huge impact on the ultimate choice made by the car buyer. Comfort-centric features like internal climate control, inbuilt entertainment system, connectivity with other devices like smart phones, and even touchscreen devices are becoming very common in automobiles.
All these devices and subsystems are powered by software applications. Car makers are using modern automotive technology to create an integrated setup where all applications related to the car’s propulsion, transmission, aesthetics, entertainment, and passenger comfort work in sync with each other.
Safer Driving
Traditionally, automotive safety has been the primary responsibility of the car’s driver. This meant that the physical health and safety of the occupants of the car was dependent on the driving skills of a single individual. Over the years, there have been numerous innovations in the field of automotive safety. Electronic sensors were used to prevent automobiles from skidding and minimizing injuries through deployment of airbags.
Modern safety-centric automotive software solutions include:
- Sensors track the car’s position with reference to other automobiles on the road and decelerate the vehicle when it gets too close to other cars.
- Automated calling systems that seek emergency assistance after a collision takes place.
- Inbuilt fire-suppression systems to minimize the risk of explosions.
New-Age Automobiles
These software programs and solutions are focusing on the conventional approach where a human being is always in control of the automobile. Today, software applications are also being used to create driverless cars. This represents a paradigm shift in the world of automobiles. These driverless cars will rely on onboard video devices, computers, and cloud computing solutions to control and operate the car in a safe and effective manner.
The modern automobile industry has a creditable track record of using technological innovations to improve safety and overall quality of the driving experience. With computer technology and software applications becoming smarter and more versatile, it is obvious that the automobile industry shall continue to experience significant transformations in the future as well.
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Photo credit: World Skills
