"Honda has begun to incorporate such things as GPS, and voice integrated response"
If you are into the technological swing of things, you may have notice that like
many others just like you it is impossible to keep up with this vast and ever changing
market. The most popular is the home computer, everyone seems to be upgrading or
buying a new computer every one too two years. But what about cars, yes cars you
may or may not noticed but they are becoming more advanced in the field of technology.
With such things as Satellite navigation, GPS (global positioning system), and for
those long road trips Nintendo or movies to keep the kids and in-laws occupied. We
will talk to an expert on Honda cars Eric Erickson about what he foresees in the
future of cars.
John: Eric! With Honda cars being Japanese, do you believe that it
gives them a jump-start into this new technology race against American cars?
Eric: "No because, American cars where the first to start putting more electronics
in their cars. Such as the Lincoln Navigator which uses a satellite navigation system.
John : Do you see the Japanese coming from behind to take the market as done in the
past?
Eric : "Yes, because the Japanese tend to take American ideas a expandon them to
make it better"
John : What kinds of technology is Honda currentlytesting for their new cars?
Eric : "While Honda has begun to incorporate such things as GPS, and voice
integrated response, these prototypes are only available in Japan for the time being."
John : What trends have you seen thus far in the American automotive market?
Eric : "As of today, there are only a select few vehicles with this advanced
technology. They are incorporating such things as mini in-dash computer systems which are
integrated with GPS, and other mapping programs that tell you your exact co-ordinate
location, as well as street address, etc."
John : How dependable is this current technology?
Eric : "Since it is only available in the higher end vehicles, it is very reliable.
There has been extensive research, and development to ensure that it will function
effectively, and be user friendly."
John : What technological predictions do you have for cars in the future?
Eric : "I see the voice recognition becoming standard in most cars, and gradually
becoming fully computerized, in order to pinpoint any potential problems with the
vehicle."
John: You mentioned pinpointing any problems. Does this mean everything will be wired
to one central unit?
Eric : "No. With the use of numerous IP addresses, and infrared signals in
different parts of the car, it will be able to send and receiveinformation about the
status of any given part, at any time in order to warn the driver of a potential problem."
John : What is an IP address?
Eric : "It is a unique numerical address that gives an electronic identity to any
given machine.
John : Do you foresee any problems with people hacking onto cars and tampering with
the data banks, and rendering them inoperable.
Eric : "As with any computer-based technology, there is always the risk of hackers,
but there are many devices in place in order to discourage any type of tampering. Also,
as with any other computer there will most likely be the option for upgrades to prevent
any such activity."
John: How long before we see this kind of technology being incorporated into our daily
lives?
Eric : "I predict that within the next 5 - 7 years this type of advancement
will be common place in our daily lives."
The cars of today will continue to expand into new fields of technology. Not only as a
navigation tool, but also a driver aid in every facet. We can only predict what will
come of this, but be assured that it will encompass a wide variety of technologies, to
only better the driving experience.
By John Shukys And Eric Erickson
