The auto sector witnessed massive ups and downs in the last decade. But with the global digitisation buzz, it is set for an extensive change. The tango between tech and auto companies is gaining momentum. Electric mobility and green energy, machine learning and artificial intelligence, augmented reality and virtual reality, 5G cellular networks, Connected Autonomous Shared Electric (CASE), Internet of Things (IoT), stringent emission regulations and cyber security are among the tech trends that will reshape the landscape of the automotive industry.
Electric mobility and green energy
Electric mobility is regarded as a saviour technology as it helps humankind tackle the challenges of depleting fossil fuel reserves and rapidly deteriorating ambient air quality. Electrification is more relevant for urban areas where charging facilities can be packed with other utilities and amenities.
The future of electric mobility relies on the local design and manufacturing of batteries as per Indian requirements. According to a recent analysis, EV MOM sales between February-May 2022 have been up by 88%. Investors, government agencies, and car manufacturers are pouring money into this research to profit from emission-free electric vehicles. The outlook of the automotive sector has changed due to the large-scale damage caused to the environment and the increasing rate of reliance on fossil fuels.
Connected Autonomous Shared Electric
A technology trend buzzing all around, especially in the mobility world, is Connected Autonomous Shared Electric (CASE). It indicates that mobility in the future will go way beyond traditional automotive development. There will be a shift of focus with more attention toward developing mobility solutions rather than designing the vehicle. It takes a deep dive into the technologies that depend on sustainability, energy, and the environment.
Internet of Things (IoT)
The Internet of Things (IoT) is another promising technology trend. It refers to devices that are connected to each other via the internet. IoT has enabled devices like wearables, smartphones, home appliances, and cars. These products are capable of ‘talking’ to each other and exchanging data over the internet.
IoT allows car owners to track mobility requirements, lock doors remotely, track the energy consumption of EVs, use traffic monitoring systems, receive notifications for vehicle maintenance, and more. The biggest advantage of the technology is quick data collection, integration in the system and instant analysis resulting in controlled action.
The technology can improve customer service, enable predictive maintenance, efficiency, surveillance, and better safety.
Artificial Intelligence
AI-based vehicles are the pacesetters in the auto sector. The technology enables smart travel methods, where vehicles do not need drivers and can work on software and sensors. These autonomous vehicles focus on reducing the need for human drivers and make daily transport convenient and hassle-free.
Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality
Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Extended Reality (ER) are next-generation technology trends. AR enhances the users’ environment while VR immerses them in an environment. The technologies have massive potential in entertainment, marketing, training, education, simulation, etc. Therefore, it is soon expected to see these forms of technologies integrated into the automotive sector.
The Bottom Line
The end consumer might find all of this mind-boggling technical jargon. However, the transformative impact will remain high. For instance, a connected and enabled eco-system can send notifications when the engine oil or brake oil dip and require refilling in a day or two. The devices will be able to provide pre-emptive notifications based on driving patterns and road conditions. As a result, the cost of maintenance will reduce significantly. Disruptive technologies can also increase the longevity of the vehicle. Collision detection technology can bring down the number of accidents.
The automotive sector shows an upswing every year in the demand for newer technologies. Industrialists and researchers are innovating the latest manufacturing technologies to meet the demand. Car manufacturers are also implementing various techniques to provide the best and most innovative technology to their end-users. In the years to come, the auto sector is gearing to welcome any upcoming innovations which will change the face of the industry across the globe.
(Rajeev Kumar is the CTO of CarWale)
