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What is a Smart Car?

Malcolm Tatum
By
Updated: May 23, 2024
Views: 38,066
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Also known as intelligent cars, smart cars are vehicles that are equipped with system-driven forms of artificial intelligence. The underlying concept of the smart car is to free the driver from many of the mundane tasks associated with driving, making the act of driving more pleasant. Proponents of this type of technological innovation often note that by relieving the driver of at least part of the decision-making process, there is the possibility that the widespread use of intelligent cars would help to make roadways much safer than they are today.

The idea of a smart car has been around for a number of decades. Motion pictures and televisions shows have sometimes featured cars with highly developed artificial intelligence, and some that were even capable of independent thought and action. While the reality of the smart car is not quite as advanced as those theatrical portrayals, continuing efforts to make the most of existing technology has led to a number of car innovations that are current being tested.

Smart car development has already led to some innovations that are commonplace on many makes and models today. One example is the modern automatic emergency notification system, in which sensors on the vehicle connect with a central support organization and relay distress signals when there is a collision or some sort of mechanical failure. These same systems also allow for voice interaction between the driver and remote personnel who can alert authorities and thus provide assistance to an injured or otherwise infirm driver.

Many of the features envisioned for smart car production have to do with protecting the driver as well as other vehicles on the road. An autonomous cruise control feature activates automatically when road conditions are favorable for maintaining a consistent speed, thus minimizing the chances for traveling above the posted speed limit. Headlamps that automatically turn on when light conditions darken to a specific point are another example of smart innovation. A lane departure warning system that activates when ongoing traffic in the lane is present is another example of a feature that would help drivers avoid accidents and remain safe.

Efforts to create a smart car for mass production is ongoing, with some of the efforts spearheaded by government-approved organizations and commissions. Some private concerns are also involved in the continuing efforts to develop the ultimate smart car. Among the other features currently under development include the ability of the car to drive safely without the input of a human driver, and a monitoring system that would detect when a driver was intoxicated, in some sort of medical distress, or is otherwise rendered incapable of driving safely. There are also efforts to develop traffic sign recognition systems that would allow vehicles to detect and interpret traffic signals, signs posted along the side of the road.

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Malcolm Tatum
By Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing to become a full-time freelance writer. He has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WikiMotors, and his work has also been featured in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and newspapers. When not writing, Malcolm enjoys collecting vinyl records, following minor league baseball, and cycling.
Discussion Comments
By Drentel — On Jan 28, 2014

Animandel - I agree, we have the technology to produce totally computer driven cars. Well, we might not have the technology yet, but we have the means to get there. The challenge is actually putting the technology in cars without making the cars too expensive for the average consumer.

Smart car prices are not outrageous at this time, so if we can continue to advance the technology without pricing going wild, I think there will be a high demand for them. I mean, if the cars are priced the same and you are given a choice, who wouldn't take a smart car over a not-so-smart car?

By Animandel — On Jan 27, 2014

Sporkasia - I think whether or not we get to the point where the car totally drives itself depends on how much smart car sales continue to rise. If people want the technology, I think the car makers have the ability to get there at some point.

Many people predicted we would have cars operating themselves by now, but it hasn't happen yet. Maybe it'll happen over the next few decades.

By Sporkasia — On Jan 27, 2014
@Drentel- I agree the car that parks itself is great, especially when you are parking challenged like myself. Do you think there will eventually be cars that do all the driving and you just hop in and go for the ride?
By Drentel — On Jan 26, 2014

One of the aspects or abilities of smart cars ( at least some smart cars) that amazes me the most is parallel parking. I find it simply amazing that you can turn the parking over to the computer system and just sit there in the driver's seat while the car parks itself.

That alone makes me want to buy a smart car. Amazing!

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing...
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