1. Engine

Ford’s S-Max people carrier has an intelligent speed limiter that uses a camera mounted on the windscreen to scan traffic signs. It enables automatic adjustment of maximum vehicle speed to remain within legal driving limits.

2. Road Monitoring

Developed by Jaguar Land Rover on its Evoque model, this technology will allow a vehicle to gather data about the location and severity of potholes, broken drains and manhole covers via a suite of sensors and cameras on the windscreen and front of the car. It will also allow vehicles to send and receive warnings allowing the driver to slow down or the car to adjust its suspension settings to reduce the impact, with the aim of reducing the potential for punctures, wheel and vehicle damage. 

3. Traffic Signals

BMW is introducing an embedded app, EnLighten, that lets drivers anticipate traffic signal changes by displaying real-time dashboard data. EnLighten combines data from a city’s traffic management systems with that of a vehicle’s location to make predictions. Using an iPhone’s GPS, it pinpoints the light a driver is approaching and checks how recently it has changed colour. This enables it to predict when traffic lights will change based on the user’s position and speed, so it can tell a driver whether to start braking or to prepare to move off if they are stationary. The system is currently active in the US cities of Portland and Eugene, Oregon and Salt Lake City in Utah. More will follow.

4. Parking

Audi has trialled a system where a link is established between cars and car parks, enabling barriers to be raised and charges paid without driver input. A test programme involved 13,000 connected vehicles at the car maker’s Ingolstadt HQ. Software giant SAP has developed a similar platform. When approaching a car park, the car’s infotainment screen displays the hourly rate and a button graphic. Tap the button and, providing there are spaces, the barrier opens, starting the clock on your parking time. If there are no spaces, the car’s sat-nav will direct you to another car park or around the block until a space is free. 

5. Diagnostics

Volvo’s ‘Book service and repair’ is one of a number of manufacturer solutions that allow you to manage vehicle servicing and repair from your internet-connected car. Information is sent to your dealer, who will contact you to book an appointment. US firm Openbay has started OpenbayConnect, which leverages connected car technology to remotely diagnose vehicle problems and deliver repair quotes to consumers from mechanics.

To read the full article see FIA AUTO magazine Issue 12 here.