These days, the rate at which new car models are released is incredible, with improvements to safety, infotainment and efficiency being developed at an alarming speed. Not only that, but technology previously reserved for luxury saloons is now more affordable than ever, and finding its way into hatchbacks and super minis for a fraction of the price.
Previously, we looked at predictions made by motorists in 1989 as to what they thought driving in the UK would look like in 2013 - with some interesting results.
Now the 2013 RAC Report on Motoring is asking drivers to do the same – what do drivers in 2013 think the face of motoring will look like in 2028? And are we closer to these predictions than we think?
65% of drivers think that the cars of the future will inform you when you’re over the speed limit
Believe it or not, some cars are already capable of this. Many of the newer Sat Navs can now alert the driver if they’re over the speed limit and give the driver a notification. Ford also has a system (available on the new Focus) that scans road signs as you drive along, and relays the information to the driver via the dashboard.
57% predict that fully electric cars will be mainstream
Electric vehicles haven’t really taken off to the extent the manufacturers – and environmentalists – might have hoped. Critics of electric cars blame the high costs and poor infrastructure needed to support them, although this is constantly improving.
53% of motorists think that cars will be able to park themselves
Self-parking systems have been around for a while, but are still a relatively expensive option on higher end cars. However, manufactures like [Ford] and [Volkswagen] are now making it available on their Ford and Golf models. Next step - cars that drive themselves?
52% believe that hybrid cars will be widespread
Hybrid cars are a popular option for drivers who cover long distances but still want to consider their impact on the environment (and their fuel costs), but as oil is not set to run out for some time yet, more and more of us are sticking to our petrol and diesel cars.
42% of drivers think it will be socially unacceptable to have a gas-guzzling car
We may not have to worry about this one, with each new car model released being more economical and efficient than the previous version. Even supercar manufactures like Ferrari are getting in on the act with their new LaFerrari model, which features an electric motor for a 40% reduction in fuel consumption.
40% predict that cars won’t allow you to go over the speed limit
Technology already allows the driver to electronically limit their speed - but how far are we from letting someone else do it for us? Recently, a number of insurance companies have introduced telematics insurance – a small box that sits in your car and monitors your driving habits and speed, affecting your insurance premiums. Although the box can’t directly control the car, critics argue we’re one step closer to “big brother” keeping an eye on our driving.
Only time will tell whether these predictions come true or not, but one thing is for sure – car manufacturers will continue to pour a huge amount of resource into developing new technologies to improve their latest models.
While we don’t sell flying cars (yet), we do have a wide range of cars with electric and hybrid technology on offer.