Connected Car Technology In 2020: The Top Feature Most Buyers Looked For This Year

Connected technology on cars started off being limited to very few models that were sold in the market. However, over the course of the year, connected tech has become one of the most sought after features. Multiple car brands have now introduced their version of this feature on many of their models in the market.

What Is Connected Technology?
The connected technology will help the user control the car using internet connectivity. To enable internet, brands use an eSIM usually embedded to the car's infotainment system. With an internet-enabled car, the user or the owner can control various aspects and features remotely. This includes starting the car, window operation and more.

The car is usually controlled by using a smartphone application that pairs to the vehicles infotainment system. It will be a tailor-made application offering a host of options all listed inside the application.

With the connected car technology the security of the car also gets a significant boost. In case of theft, the users will have an option to remotely lock the car and secure their vehicles, anywhere across the world. The internet connectivity will also help track the movement of their vehicles in real-time with Geo-tagging features.

The user can also seek help, in case of a breakdown at an unknown location. Because of the vehicle's connected technology, it can be located by the brand's call centre. The location can be shared to first responders or breakdown service for immediate help.

Connected Technology In 2020
The connected car technology was still at a nascent stage at the start of 2020. However, the feature has gained popularity ever since becoming an important addition to modern vehicle tech.

In a way, the connected technology has also forced the manufactures to improve the infotainment system in cars. Because of internet connectivity, brands are also offering an onboard music streaming service. It has resulted in a better in-cabin experience with large screens and premium sound systems.

Another major advancement in connected car technology is the AI-assistance. With the AI-assistance drivers can simply talk to the car and request for a feature to operate. This includes operations such as getting the window down and adjusting the climate control.

However, the biggest change in connected car technology for the year 2020, is it's out-reach. The technology was initially available for high-end cars, which were priced way above the price bracket. Fast-forwarding to the current time, we can see connected technology being offered in compact-SUVs and hatchbacks.

Popular Connected Car Technology Brands
Kia's UVO Connect: Kia motors introduced the Seltos with a connected car technology called the UVO connect. It offers the user freedom to control and navigate through features without physically being inside or in front or even see the vehicle. The company has recently announced that it has become the first brand to sell 1 lakh connected cars in the country — here are all details.

MG's i-Smart: the MG i-Smart was the first form of connected technology that was introduced to the Indian market. The i-Smart features AI-assistance that lets the user talk the car to control various features of the car and not just pre-written commands. It is among the most evolved form of connected car technology available in the country.

Hyundai Blue Link: Hyundai is offering its Blue Link connected car technology with most of its models including the recently launched i20 premium hatchback. Hyundai's connected technology comes packed with a host of commands for enhanced convenience to the user.

Mercedes-Benz MBUX: the Mercedes-Benz MBUX is among the most advanced connected car technologies in the world. The luxury car manufacturer offers the MBUX AI-assisted connected technology for enhanced and premium experience. The MBUX is designed to have a casual conversation with the driver to help make the journey smoother.

Conclusion
The connected car technology is here to stay and will be introduced to more cars in future. Along with that, the brands will also improve the current technology to offer enhanced convenience and features to the user. However, the only downside to the connected car technology is the subscription service, which will be required for the eSIM of the vehicle. This will add to the running costs and maintenance of the vehicle.

Thoughts About The Connected Car Technology In 2020

The connected car technology has many advantages such as enhanced convenience, ease of use and improved security of the vehicle. With more car buyers seeking connected technology, we can assume that brands will start to offer it even on entry-level models sold in the market. However, it could also increase the running costs of the vehicle because of subscription charges.