Top Five Tech Trends

The computer chip is revolutionizing the human-machine interface. From navigation systems to hands-free cell phone access, automotive electronics are making rapid progress.

"Although many technologies, such as Bluetooth and navigation may not seem as 'new' as they were several years ago, manufacturers have greatly improved the quality, features, and user interfaces," said Chris Yato, manager of Competition Soundworks in Artesia, Calif. "As these technologies mature, consumers are able to enjoy entertainment, information, and conveniences more seamlessly between home, work and automobile."

We see five major technology trends for vehicles in the coming year with respect to in-car electronics. Here's a rundown of the big ideas accompanied by a slideshow that highlights vehicles we think best incorporate them:

In-Car Computing

Installing a personal computer in the dashboard of a car facilitates data storage and entertainment functions like digitally storing entire music libraries in the car so you can leave the iPod or other portable music device at home. It also allows drivers to.

Many car computers also allow Web surfing and emailing. Some are also digital-TV ready to provide entertainment options beyond what are typically offered in a car. For safety reasons, most in-car computers are designed to operate only while the car is parked.

The majority of in-car computers run on Microsoft’s Windows platform, although we’ve also seen a diminutive Apple Mac Mini unit installed in a glove box and connected to a screen in the dashboard.

The most impressive type of in-car computer is the all-in-one PC, where the hard drive and processors are stored directly behind a video screen in the center console for a slick installation. Ford is one of the first automakers to offer such a system. It recently debuted a system it calls Work Solutions available initially on the new Ford F series pickup trucks. The system features an in-car computer that can be fitted with a keyboard and printer and is aimed at business and commercial customers.

MP3 Player Connectivity

In 2008, full iPod integration is an expected standard feature on luxury cars, and it's already available on many non-luxury rides, as well. The Infiniti EX35 is one vehicle that does iPod integration particularly well. Read more about it in the slideshow.

There are generally two ways to synch iPods to car stereo systems in new vehicles. The first way, which also works for other portable music players, is a simple auxiliary jack usually located on the center console somewhere.

The second way applies only to iPods and is more integrated. For an extra fee, typically around $200 to $300, a proprietary iPod connector allows drivers full access to music libraries with top-notch sound quality. Artist information is usually displayed on the dash and, on the best systems ? like that of the new Cadillac CTS and Infiniti EX35 ? the entire iPod menu system is easily navigable using the car’s audio controls. "Taking your entertainment along for the ride will only continue to get better for consumers," says Todd Ramsey of the Phoenix, Ariz.-based Ramsey Consulting Group, a firm that tracks the mobile electronics industry.

Bluetooth Integration

"Bluetooth" is the technology that makes it possible to talk on a cell phone with no hands or wires ? and it's what makes those little blinking earpieces work. Having Bluetooth in the car makes sense, especially because driving while talking is now outlawed in much of the country. "Reinforced by law in many states, mandatory Bluetooth kits on vehicles are necessary to provide a safe driving experience," says Joshua Landau, president of St. Louis-based JML Audio. “Keeping this in mind, conveniences such as phonebook access that can be controlled by voice are becoming an absolute.”

But the technology isn't just found in earpieces anymore. You’ll find it in your car stereo, your visor, or on top of your dashboard, so that if your phone is connected, you can simply speak aloud and place a call. Many cars, like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class , are even smart enough to turn the stereo down when you do so.

The New Navigation

"Text-to-speech technology has become the latest buzzword in the navigation industry because of its emphasis on safety," Landau says. "Since street names during guidance are spoken, drivers spend more time with their eyes on the road instead of their navigation display." And if your Bluetooth phone is connected, it can read your text messages to you. Navigation systems have also joined forces with radar detectors to alert drivers to common speed traps ahead of time.

Factory Infusion

Automakers are adding more complex electronic devices at the factory these days. Often the easiest way to control the array of "infotainment," temperature, navigation, and vehicle diagnostics systems is through one central interface that streamlines all of those confusing buttons and knobs.

The Cadillac CTS is equipped with an especially sleek system that combines multiple entertainment features in one tidy unit. The competing Mercedes-Benz C-Class also has a well-integrated interface. To accomplish this, manufacturers have to equip their vehicles with proprietary networks that allow electrical components to communicate with each other.

The downside is that this typically makes adding aftermarket devices difficult.

But that is changing. Some aftermarket companies have been working with manufacturers directly to develop products that integrate seamlessly, so buyers can easily add things like satellite radio, iPod, and Bluetooth control without sacrificing the cars’ pre-installed features.

"In addition to the capacity for input devices in today’s OEM [original equipment manufacturer] audio systems, they also have the capability for adding on upgraded amplifiers, subwoofers, and main speakers," Ramsey says. "Maintaining the original look and feel of your factory audio system, yet having enhancements to make it sound vastly improved over how it originally did is entirely possible in the hands of a capable installation specialist."

A study conducted by GfK Custom Research, based in New York, asked adults what options they would be interested in having on their car: GPS Navigation was the most-desired technology out of the five spotlighted in this article. Internet access was the least desired of all, with 24 percent of respondents expressing interest. Built-in Bluetooth capability was likewise near the bottom in terms of desirability, with 38 percent of those surveyed expressing interest.

Low-tech and long-used remote starting systems that allow vehicles to be started and warmed up without having to get in the car and turn the ignition topped GfK's list.

If you’re thinking of adding new technology to your vehicle, make sure you try out products hands-on and don’t just rely on reviews and online research.

"Many products and systems seem equal on paper, but it is virtually impossible to tell what the real differences are between products that are iPod-compatible or Bluetooth-ready just by browsing the Internet or thumbing through a catalog," says Competition Soundworks' Yato. "Experiencing a product in a real-world demonstration or finding a trustworthy tech expert that has first-hand knowledge and experience with these products is vital to customer satisfaction."