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12 Advanced Car Safety Features Every New Vehicle Should Have
12 Electronic Safety Systems to Look For in Your Next Car
If you haven't bought a new car in recent years, you might be pleasantly surprised by the abundance of advanced electronic safety systems available in today's models. These technologies are no longer reserved for high-end luxury vehicles; they now come in many affordable models, providing extra safety and convenience on the road. MotorVero is here to guide you through the top 12 safety systems to look for when choosing your next car.
1. Adaptive Cruise Control
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) goes beyond the conventional cruise control by maintaining a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. This system uses radar and cameras to detect the speed of traffic and adjust accordingly. ACC is ideal for long highway drives, reducing driver fatigue by automatically accelerating or decelerating based on the flow of traffic.
- Examples: Chrysler Adaptive Cruise Control Plus, Ford Adaptive Cruise Control, Honda Adaptive Cruise Control.
2. Blind-Spot Warning
Blind-Spot Warning (BSW) systems are designed to alert drivers when a vehicle is in their blind spot, making lane changes safer. Cameras or radar are used to detect vehicles alongside your car, activating a warning light in the side mirrors if another car is detected. This feature is crucial on busy highways and in poor visibility conditions.
- Examples: Ford Blind-Spot Information System, Subaru Blind-Spot Detection, Volvo Blind-Spot Information System.
3. Cross-Traffic Alert
Cross-Traffic Alert systems come in handy, especially when reversing out of a parking space. By using radar to detect vehicles approaching from the side, this system can prevent accidents that occur when backing out of tight spots. The system sounds an alert when a vehicle is detected, and some even automatically apply the brakes to prevent a collision.
- Examples: Chevrolet Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Subaru Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.
4. Lane-Departure Warning
Lane-Departure Warning (LDW) systems monitor lane markings and warn drivers if their vehicle starts to drift out of its lane without using a turn signal. This is particularly helpful for preventing unintentional lane changes caused by driver fatigue or distraction. The warning is typically audible or visual, and in some cases, the driver's seat may vibrate as an additional alert.
- Examples: Cadillac Lane-Departure Warning, Toyota Lane-Departure Alert.
5. Lane-Keep Assist
Lane-Keep Assist takes the functionality of LDW a step further by actively steering the car back into its lane if the driver doesn't respond to the warning. This system helps prevent accidents due to drifting but still requires the driver to keep their hands on the wheel at all times. It provides an extra layer of safety, especially on long drives.
- Examples: Chevrolet Lane-Keep Assist, Mercedes-Benz Active Blind-Spot Assist, Honda Lane-Keeping Assist System.
6. Forward-Collision Warning
Forward-Collision Warning (FCW) systems use radar, lasers, or cameras to detect when a vehicle is at risk of colliding with another car or an obstacle ahead. If a potential collision is detected, the system provides an audible or visual warning to prompt the driver to take action. It serves as an early alert system to reduce reaction time.
- Examples: Chevrolet Forward-Collision Alert, Honda Forward-Collision Warning, Nissan Predictive Forward-Collision Warning.
7. Brake Assist
Brake Assist works in tandem with the car's anti-lock braking system to provide maximum braking force during emergency stops. This system is triggered when it detects that the driver is attempting a panic stop, offering additional stopping power to help avoid an accident. Brake Assist ensures more controlled stops, especially in emergency situations.
- Examples: Ford Brake Support, Toyota Brake Assist.
8. Automatic Emergency Braking
Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) takes over when the driver fails to react to a potential collision in time. It applies the brakes automatically to either prevent a crash or reduce its severity. AEB is often combined with forward-collision warning systems, adding an extra layer of safety by intervening when necessary.
- Examples: Chrysler Forward-Collision Warning Plus, Toyota Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection.
9. Parental/Employer Controls and Monitoring
For parents or employers seeking to ensure safe driving practices, certain manufacturers offer features to monitor driver behavior. These systems can set speed limits, disable audio systems if seatbelts are unfastened, and provide data on driving habits. This helps promote responsible driving among young or inexperienced drivers, and among employees using company vehicles.
- Examples: Ford MyKey, Chevrolet Teen-Driver Vision.
10. Pedestrian Detection
Pedestrian Detection systems use cameras and infrared sensors to detect pedestrians or cyclists in the path of the vehicle. When a pedestrian is detected, the system issues a warning and can even apply the brakes to prevent a collision. This is especially useful in urban areas with heavy foot traffic, enhancing the vehicle's safety features significantly.
- Examples: Cadillac Night Vision, Volvo City Safety.
11. 360-Degree Camera
The 360-Degree Camera system combines multiple cameras placed around the car to provide a bird's-eye view, making it easier for drivers to navigate tight spots and avoid obstacles. This feature is particularly helpful when parking in narrow spaces or when visibility is limited.
- Examples: BMW Surround View Camera System, Nissan Around View Monitor.
12. Parking Assists
Parking Assist systems can vary from simple auditory alerts to full-fledged self-parking capabilities. Ultrasonic sensors detect nearby objects while the car is parking, providing an audible warning if the driver gets too close. More advanced versions can take over steering, helping the vehicle to parallel or reverse park autonomously, reducing stress and the likelihood of fender-benders.
- Examples: Ford Active Park Assist, BMW Parking Assistant.
Conclusion
These advanced electronic safety systems not only enhance driver convenience but significantly improve overall road safety. When considering your next car purchase, it's crucial to look for these features to maximize your protection on the road. At MotorVero, we're committed to educating you about the latest in automotive technology, ensuring you make informed decisions when selecting your next vehicle. From adaptive cruise control to pedestrian detection, these innovations are designed to keep you and your loved ones safe on every journey.
For more insights on the latest car technologies and best practices for safety, stay connected with MotorVero.
MotorVero
Last Updated On Nov, 10-2024