The future of driving

Posted by Joe Svetlik on Thu 26 Jun 2008

Introducing the cars that talk to each other. Road rage just got futuristic

We've just got back from Continental Tyres' secret test track, where we got a glimpse at what the future holds for driving. Behold...

Road rage 2.0

With chips embedded in tyres talking to one another, you'll be able to tell what other cars are doing. So if someone has broken down ahead and switched on their hazard lights, a warning will flash up on your screen saying so.

You'll then be able to call them via voice over IP to see if they need a hand. Or yell abuse.

Red traffic lights will also slow you down if you're approaching too fast.

Expected: 2010

Save fuel

Ever seen a car that can tell you how to save fuel? You will soon. An ITS sensor in the tyres measures the load distribution, and advises you via your satnav to change the tyre pressure depending on how much you're carrying to optimise economy and save fuel. Very weclome in these times of rocketing fuel prices.

And if it says you're overburdened with just you and the missus in the car, one of you needs to go on a diet.

Expected: 2009

Hill starts simplified

And for off-roaders comes the EHC (electric hydraulic combined) brake. Take your foot off the accelerator on a steep hill, and it'll roll to a stop, unlike the creeping forward found on modern automatics.

And there's no limit, so you can sit there twiddling your thumbs indefinitely without budging an inch. Just be prepared for a few irate VOIP calls from people behind.

Expected: 2009