subject: Digital Dashboards [print this page] Digital Dashboards Digital Dashboards
With technology developments abundant across our world, and more coming at such a fast rate it's no wonder these technological advances are also being seen in our vehicles. And the internet dashboard or infotainment system as it is called by manufacturers is the next in car device that is polled to cause major distraction when we are out and about on the roads.
Both Google and Intel are looking at developing clever dashboards, including cars with screens above the dashboard that show 3d maps, web pages and even videos while we are driving.
Peter Rodger, IAM Chief Examiner, said: "If drivers were tempted to use the internet or watch videos on the move, the results could be deadly,"
"If it's not acceptable to read a novel while driving, how can it be acceptable to read a multimedia display? Just how much information can a car driver absorb and still drive responsibly?"
"There is a fine line between providing useful extra information and causing a dangerous distraction. This system appears to cross that line," Mr Rodger added.
These systems will have features so that they cannot be used when the car is in motion, which defies the point of them. Advertised as a great improvement on sat nav, if they are unable to be used when the car is moving then it renders them useless.
If you are driving on the roads in the UK, make sure you do not get distracted, and that you have a valid Car Insurance policy to cover you against any accidents.
