The Future of Driving

Automobile technology is rapidly evolving. Computer systems with sensors that can park our cars for us, wireless connectivity, and important safety revolutions have already hit the market. Self-driving cars are the next huge breakthrough set to revolutionize driving and the time we spend in our vehicles. No longer a distant dream, self-driving cars are highly likely to be on the market within most of our lifetimes, and possibly within the next decade. The future is here, and Mitsubishi is keeping pace with its commitment to advancing technology.

The Car of the Not-So-Distant Future  

Self-driving and autonomous automobile technology is rapidly accelerating due to inexpensive computers and more accurate algorithms for object recognition and other “smart” functions. For example, last year, scientists were able to create algorithms for object recognition that had an error rate of less than 5%--which is lower than the average error rate for humans! Self-driving cars will rely on artificial intelligence for accurate object recognition, so low error rates are key. Indeed, it is thought that automobile technology may outpace insurance and government regulations, as well as public infrastructure’s ability to adapt to such advancements like autonomous cars and hybrid fueling and charging stations.   

In the meantime, expect to see cars that gradually incorporate more artificial intelligence and autonomous features, such as predictive technology. This could mean that your car and your Smartphone will be seamlessly integrated so that your car knows where you’re going, as well as traffic patterns and routes, before you even get into it. Improved object recognition and sensors will most likely assist drivers in collision avoidance, staying in lanes, steering, and even passing other vehicles for the driver, according to Techradar.

Mitsubishi’s Commitment to Evolving Technology

The latest Mitsubishi models already integrate some of the newest technology on the market, such as rearview cameras, Bluetooth hands-free dialing, and Smartphone integration. Mitsubishi strives to be on the cutting edge of technological advancement. You can view many of their engineering milestones here. Mitsubishi also is at the helm of the ever-evolving auto industry with their studio lab, where concept cars and future cars are created. Imagine possibilities for the future by checking out Mitsubishi Motors’ design lab samples!

Expressway Mitsubishi is located at 5511 East Indiana Street in Evansville, Indiana, and also proudly serves the Henderson, Kentucky and Mt. Vernon, Indiana areas as well. If you want to test drive a vehicle with the latest technology, stop by our dealership! Our experienced team will be happy to go over some of the latest features and show you how they work on the road. Please visit our website to view our inventory, call us at (866) 437-9750 for more information.

Don’t Let Your Teen Forget About Road Safety This Fall

Now that school is back in session, the hustle and bustle of fall can make it easy to forget about the importance of road safety. The National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration reports that fall is the most dangerous time of year for pedestrians, so now is the perfect time to remind ourselves and teen drivers about auto safety in school zones and on the road in general.

Texting and Distracted Driving

Now illegal in the majority of states, texting and driving has been linked to being 23 times more likely to be involved in an accident. Teens are especially susceptible to this problem. It is important to model good driving to children and teens, so that they take laws and warnings about cell phone usage while driving seriously. For more facts and statistics on texting and mobile phone usage when driving, visit here.

Many collisions and other accidents are caused by distractibility. Emphasize at all times that road safety is the first priority when driving. Phone calls, texting, loud talking and too much activity from other passengers in the vehicle can distract any driver.

Consider drawing up a Teen Driving Contract if you have a new driver in your household: see an example here!

Designated School Zones

School zones have lower speed limits. Children, being shorter and smaller, can be hard for drivers to see. They can also be unpredictable, especially when distracted or in a hurry. Slow down and watch for children, who might dart from between parked cars or enter a crosswalk without checking for oncoming traffic. Traffic violations in school zones can come with hefty penalties, not to mention the risk posed to children walking, biking, and riding the bus to and from school.  

School Bus Safety

It is illegal in every state in the US to pass a school bus that has stopped to let children out. When school bus lights are flashing and/or it has a stop sign extended near the bus driver’s window, all traffic must stop on both sides of the bus, whether the traffic is oncoming or from behind.   

Emergency Kits and Safe Cars for Student Drivers

Getting your student’s car in its best shape now will help avoid unexpected breakdowns, getting stranded in an inconvenient location, and potentially even an accident. Parents should check that their teen or college-aged driver has emergency supplies in the car, such as a spare tire and jack, jumper cables, first aid kit, tire gauge, spare cell phone charger, blanket, fresh water, and nonperishable snack items.

For more tips on driving safely around children, visit here.

Expressway Mitsubishi is located at 5511 East Indiana Street in Evansville, Indiana, and also proudly serves the Henderson, Kentucky and Mt. Vernon, Indiana areas as well! Please visit our website to see our inventory, call us at (866) 437-9750 or stop in to test-drive your dream vehicle.

Technology Abounds in the 2017 Mirage G4

Today’s busy consumer is consistently looking for new and innovative ways to safely and efficiently utilize technology on the go. The 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 does not disappoint with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto included in its streamlined infotainment system as well as Smartphone-integration technology. The key features of this system include:

·      Access to Apple Music

·      Apple Maps

·      Standard phone calling procedures

·      Hands free dialing

·      Ability to send touch screen messages

·      Ability to send messages using Siri

·      Integration with Google applications including

o   Google Play Music

o   Google Maps

o   Google Hangouts

Adding ease and functionality to your driving experience, the Apple CarPlay and Andriod Auto have a few benefits that will soon become less of a convenience feature and more an expected part of your daily driving experience.

1.     Predictive feature – both Apple and Google have designed their systems to know what you mean or want before you're even done inputting it. This is a great feature on a Smartphone, but a must have in an automobile

2.     Consistent look and feel – Each of these systems is designed to operate much the same way as their internet cousins making the user experience easier and the learning curve smaller.

3.     Up-to-date technology – because the systems are designed by the Apple and Google powerhouses, they are more up-to-date than traditional automobile technologies.

The 6.5 inch touch screen display simplifies your driving experience giving you access to standard apps including Bluetooth® hands free calling. Additionally, the back-up camera gives the driver a clear wide-angle view of any hazards behind the vehicle helping them easily maneuver into tight spaces and back out of parking spots safely and efficiently. What this adds up to is a driver friendly experience. Each detail is designed with safety and convenience in mind, providing quick access to the connectivity features that drivers expect, all at the touch of the screen. 

If you are interested in seeing the new Mirage infotainment system, contact our team Expressway Mitsubishi located at 5511 East Indiana Street in Evansville, Indiana. We also serve Henderson, Kentucky as well as Mt. Vernon, Indiana We are happy to give you a quick tutorial on the benefits of this new technology and let you take a test drive.