Tag archive: in-car technology

  Mercedes may be better known for timeless styling, brawny engines and leather-appointed interiors than cutting edge in-dash technology within its cars, but don’t declare victory just yet, Ford: The Germans are not asleep at the wheel. On Monday, the auto manufacturer unveiled Mbrace 2 at CES 2012, the next generation of its in-car navigation and entertainment system. We had a chance to go hands on with the system before it makes its way… Read More

To many people not addicted to the Internet, the following statement by US Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood may seem obvious: “There's absolutely no reason for any person to download their Facebook into the car.” But for those who do feel the need to be constantly connected, LaHood's words may have them breaking into a cold sweat. LaHood is becoming increasingly concerned about car manufacturers equipping vehicles with more and… Read More

In 2003, Sebastian Thrun was just a Stanford professor with a really cool idea. Having already built several prototype cars that feature autonomous driving, including one for a Smithsonian exhibit, the car enthusiast decided to go full bore with a new project that would eventually become Stanley, a robotic car built around a VW Touareg that won the DARPA Challenge in 2005 and has sensors that monitor traffic, control steering, and can… Read More

Gadgets and gasoline continued to get a little friendlier at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show, where a number of manufacturers showed off new in-car technology that promises to make your ride to work every bit as connected as the home. From in-car entertainment systems for listening to Jay-Z on the move, to devices that get you where you need to go (with the least gas), here were some of our favorites.

U.S. automaker Ford announced it will introduce a new seatbelt airbag that will first find its way into automobiles starting with the 2011 Ford Explorer SUV. The Ford system operates by placing a small cylinder of cold compressed gas that sits underneath the rear seats, with an inflatable bag located in the seatbelts. After a vehicle impact occurs, this new system is designed to spread the force of impact over more parts of the human body,… Read More