Auto Trends

I said, “Yes, I’m driving….”, originally uploaded by Alida’s Photos

There are two ways to look at some of the new interior lighting effects and instrument cluster displays coming out on the newest models of vehicles. On the one hand, all the new interior lighting being introduced in today’s cars grab the attention of the younger generation. They like to stand out from the crowd, and having a blue glowing floorboard, door handles, drink holders, and gear shift is something out of the ordinary, something cool… something hip!

On the other hand, manufacturers are also realizing that the baby boomers are getting older. Most of them are still young enough to drive, but yet old enough to have the money to spent on some of these upgraded interiors. The new flashy interiors actually have another functions beyond looking cool… they can help people see and identify key operational areas of the vehicle better. Areas such as the speedometer, door handle, gas pedal, drink holders, etc.

While you may not have thought about it, these new interior lighting schemes and displays have a multiple purpose in mind. They look cool, yes, but they also help boost safety levels of older drivers, help them feel younger, while also offering a new way for manufacturers to allow their newest models to stand out.

Imagine taking a late night test drive and realizing the fact that you are no longer able to see quite as well as you used to. You can’t read the radio, you have to squint to see the speedometer, and when it is time to exit the vehicle, you have to feel around just to find the door handle. Probably wouldn’t be high on your list of vehicles you’d like to own.

While you might be young now, one day you may discover the difficulties in driving when your senses and motor skills are compromised by age.  In order to keep us driving well into our 70’s, 80’s, or even 90’s, the whole process of driving needs to become simpler. Something in which may be more easily overcome by technology than all the vitamin shots in the world.

Currently, we are in the process of developing a number of technological driving aids besides better lighting and instrument cluster readouts. One such driving aid we are currently working on is a computerized control module that will aid drivers by either audible warning, or applying the brakes automatically when it senses an emergency maneuver taking place. This is something that could greatly help in compensating for slower reaction times.

Technology will also one day offer heads up visual displays on the windshield. These will offer easy to understand visuals and audibles, cautioning the driver of any danger that lay ahead. Such displays may even be able to highlight objects on the windshield using multi-colored graphics, making it easier for the driver to see, especially at night.

These are just a few of the ways that technology is helping us grow old, more gracefully!

Source: Freep.com