Exploring EV Technology
Electric vehicles (EVs) give drivers a glimpse into the future of cars. Many EVs on the market boast an unapologetically minimalist design, but when you step inside, you’re greeted with technology that serves as your co-copilot. Gone are the days of physical buttons and controls; the new age of large displays and voice-activated controls will take over
the interior.
Though these vehicles may seem straight out of a sci-fi film, they are cruising on roads across the world. Last year, 9 percent of global car sales were EVs, a number that continues to grow. According to the International Energy Agency, 120,000 EVs were sold worldwide in 2012. In 2021, that many were sold in just one week.
With this much growth, and various manufacturers releasing electrified models, EV technology continues to push boundaries. Get ready to explore some of the latest EV technology and learn more about what these futuristic rides have to offer!
Say “Hello” to Sophisticated Voice Commands
Let’s face it, most of us have a voice assistant in our pocket. If you have a smartphone, you can make a simple command in a quick sentence.
Many modern vehicles have talk-to-text for safety reasons, and integrated software that lets you make a call without taking your hands off the wheel. However, with EVs, these voice systems are becoming even smarter.
Need to turn on heated seats? In Volkswagen’s ID.4, for example, all you say is “Hello, I.D.” to activate its voice command systems. From there, it can perform nearly any function except open the car windows.
If you’re cruising in a Tesla, you can use voice command for car controls. You’re able to lock your doors, open the charge port and even turn on the windshield wipers with just your voice. The ability to control physical components of an EV with a simple voice command is reshaping what technology can do.
Streamlined Driving Experiences
Physical keys may be obsolete when it comes to EVs. Manufacturers like Tesla opt for a Smart Key, which connects to your smartphone and lets you digitally lock and unlock your vehicle. You no longer need to go digging in your pocket or bag to fumble with your keys, as the Smart Key is an intuitive solution that provides easy access to an EV.
In addition to streamlining keys, some EVs, like Volkswagen ID.4, are reshaping the software experience. A system called ID. Light illuminates the dashboard while using visual and acoustic cues to telegraph incoming calls, charging status and more.
Additionally, in the ID.4, you don’t even have to push a button to start the vehicle. The EV senses you in the driver’s seat. From there, you just put your foot on the brake and get going.
Large Displays Take Over
The latest Hummer Electric SUV boasts not one but two large displays. The first is a 12.3-inch diagonal driver display and the second is a 13.4-inch digital infotainment system that provides the driver access to various vehicle controls.
Tesla pioneered large displays in its vehicles, and now its Model X offers a massive 17-inch touchscreen display with left-right tilt and a resolution of 2200 x 1300. As EVs begin to offer the latest and greatest in tech, the more sophisticated and larger the center displays will become.
The Risks of EV Technology
Though EV technology continues to impress and evolve, there are risks that come with uncharted territory. For starters, when you have your sensitive information stored inside your EV, it can be prone to hacks.
Hackers can target charging stations and may be able to access some of your sensitive vehicle data. To remedy this, it’s best to have protection that covers cyberattacks or instances of ID theft. National Auto Care offers revolutionary ID Theft Protection in its EV product line that helps you cruise with confidence.
By opting for ID Theft protection (available in select states), drivers can have peace of mind knowing they can have their EV reset back to factory settings in the case of an attack.
Embracing EV Technology
Whether you’re an aspiring EV owner or technology enthusiast, EV technology continues to evolve and impress. If you want to learn how you can protect your EV technology, then ask your trusted dealer about how National Auto Care’s EV product suite can cover key components.
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