What new items are available today that may become common on all vehicles?
Halderman: Once a luxury item is experienced, it becomes a necessity. I can remember thinking that having air conditioning in a vehicle was the ultimate luxury, and now I will not purchase a vehicle without air conditioning. In fact, it is difficult to even find a vehicle without air conditioning unless you live in Alaska or Canada.
Here are several new features that may become necessities in the future:
1. Navigation systems - An onboard navigation system that uses global positioning satellites (GPS) to locate your vehicle is becoming more popular, especially on vehicles used for travel to unknown areas. No
monthly charge is associated with
this option, as it receives signals
from satellites that are U.S. government-owned and used at no charge.
2. Backup camera - This is a great option that I think will become mainstream soon, especially on vehicles that have a navigation display.
3. Satellite radio - There are two service providers of satellite radio - Sirius and XM. Both offer many channels of digital radio for a monthly fee. Because they use satellite and repeater stations in large cities, the radio channels can be received throughout the country. Another music choice includes MP3 players and USB ports in vehicles that now allow the use of stored music files instead of receiving live broadcasts. However, sporting events and talk shows make satellite radio a great option for those who travel.
4. Heated seats - In colder climates, heated seats are a really useful option. Some vehicles, such as some Cadillac models, allow the driver and/or passenger to select the seat back or seat bottom. Some vehicles even have heated rear seats and some offer cooled seats.
Contact James Halderman via
e-mail at jhalderman2@juno.com.
