Inhibited by the help
New in-car tech causing headaches for drivers
The latest modern car features are causing motorists more problems than they solve.
A new survey of new car owners by Hyundai has found that thousands of motorists feel “overwhelmed”.
Technical features such as cruise control, assisted parking and getting connected to Bluetooth are among the most baffling features. All are supposed to relieve driver stress but are actually doing he reverse in many situations.
New age
This survey asked 500 car owners of vehicles less than two years old for their views on the in-car technical evolution. It found that 68% struggle to get to grips with the features. Transmission options such as sports mode, electronic handbrakes and autonomous emergency braking make drivers feel uneasy.
It also discovered that this is leaving 40% believing they are failing to using their vehicle to its full potential. Yet, for many (86%), it is their most expensive tech investment.
Other features that bemuse drivers are sat-navs, voice activation systems, and even reverse parking cameras.
Blind spot alert confused the 19% of motorists, most claiming they’d never even heard of it. A further 18% don’t know anything about lane assist features or even digital keys.
Over half (55%) of drivers involved in the research admit lengthy learning times, taking six months or more for them to realise some of the features their car has.
Getting up to speed
Hyundai has created a quiz to raise awareness of the real potential of modern technology in cars. It aims to give drivers the knowledge they need to make their car-owning experience more pleasurable.
The research discovered that 48% of motorists questioned would like to see new tech that helps with comfort.
A further 40% wish for new tech to help with safety, 33% entertainment and 31% navigation. The desire for the option of self-driving comes in at 23% .
It was also revealed those under 40 are significantly more likely to want more comfort in their car, compared to older people. Meanwhile, 52% of under-30s desire more in-car entertainment.
Learning curve
Dr Martha Newson, cognitive psychologist who facilitated the consumer study, says that “drivers should take more time understanding the tech available at their fingertips”.
“We’ve proven that over half of drivers are missing out on this experience, and that’s why we want to bring this issue to light.
She believes the new quiz will help “show them how to change their relationship with technology for a better overall driving and ownership experience”.
The study discovered that it took an average of three-and-a-half months before owners got used to their car’s technology.
When it comes to confidence using modern gadgets in the car, 31% stated they didn’t feel comfortable using it, despite 73% describing themselves as tech savvy.
Eight out of ten expressed they like having the option to use advanced tech in their car, as it makes life easier for 55%, and leaves 39% feeling safer.
And a third (34%) of those polled are so used to driving a modern car, they could never drive an older model again.
Top 20 of baffling technology
- Cruise control
- Assisted parking
- Connecting different Bluetooth devices
- Sports mode
- Lane assist
- Assisted braking
- Different switch locations for fog lights
- Wireless smartphone connectivity/charging
- Electronic handbrakes
- Sat-nav
- Heated steering wheel
- Climate control
- Voice activation/recognition
- Blind spot detection
- Remote engine starting
- Reverse parking camera
- Automatic boot
- Blind-spot alert
- Massage seats
- 360-degree camera
