2019 trends revealed
The pace of change within the automotive industry looks set to accelerate during 2019.
Research carried out by Warranty Direct has identified the key trends expected to impact the industry this year.
It found that although the number of connected cars has increased in recent years, it looks set to rise even more in 2019.
In simple terms, these vehicles use mobile internet technology to control the main car functions remotely via a tablet device, smartphone, computer or smartwatch.
Not only does this enhance the driver’s experience, but it could also reduce accidents and ease traffic.
Vehicle speed and the distance to other vehicles can be adjusted to reflect conditions on the road, marking a major breakthrough that could reach beyond the auto industry.
Also, electric cars will see a significant growth in 2019, following 2018, which saw a record high in sales. This surge reflects growing consumer interest in both hybrid and electric cars.
In-car payments will also increase. Car manufacturers are creating built-in in-car payment systems. Jaguar was the first to introduce this technology, after launching the world’s first in-car payment system in association with Shell.
While only available at Shell garages, the technology will expand to include parking and drive-through restaurants.
Meanwhile, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are set to dominate in 2019, making the apps drivers use on their smartphone available every time they get behind the wheel.
Not only that, wireless charging is appearing in more and more new cars as the number of smartphone handsets with this capability increases.
Another existing trend set to continue, 2019 will see a sharp rise in websites looking to disrupt Britain’s car industry, offering customers a chance to rent a car online. Some services will see drivers pay a monthly subscription fee which covers the car and other aspects like insurance and servicing.
Motoring experts also predict a revival of old nameplates, refreshed and redesigned with modern twists and enhanced versions of current vehicles which have historically performed well.
