Automobiles are available in a variety of colors. very dangerous for their occupants—over 1 million people globally die in car accidents every year. An additional 20-50 million are also affected by non-fatal accidents each year. These are terrible statistics.
But driving doesn’t have to be this way. Many people hope that self-driving cars in the future will reduce the amount of car accidents each year. However, auto manufacturers want to make progress sooner. In reality, car safety may be addressed by 2023.
Carmakers including Mazda and Toyota are building a new generation of automobiles fitted with an array of sensors—from ECG sensors mounted on your steering wheel to ear-set sensors that can detect when drivers are not fit to drive. These sensors can detect sudden illnesses such as a heart attack or epileptic seizure, and even drunk driving. Human error accounts for over 90 percent of all auto accidents, and the introduction of multi-modal sensors (like the optical sensors and physiological monitors mentioned) to cars will continue to reduce risks for drivers and others on the road.
The most important thing is that this car will keep you safe and healthy as you drive it in 2023.
In 2023, we will continue to see a growing intersection between wellness, mobility, and AI—specifically, the evolution of multi-modal sensors to track and positively influence drivers’ health and wellness (physical, emotional, and mental). Consider Audi’s “Urbansphere” concept, which was unveiled earlier this year. It will feature stress-detection software that uses technologies such as facial scanners, voice analysis monitoring systems and AI to determine how drivers feel at any moment. The real-time data can then be used to provide personalized relaxation suggestions to drivers. This could include guided meditation.
Similar technologies are being used in the automotive industry by companies like Hyundai. The company’s “Smart Cabin” is equipped with sensors that can record a driver’s vital signs and adjust car conditions based on data collected. If the CO is detected, it can adjust car conditions based on that data.2 If your car is registering dangerous levels, you can have your car roll down the windows and activate your outside circulation mode. This is an ongoing acceleration of programs developed by companies including Mercedes, where in-car comforts like the Energizing Coach suggest appropriate wellness interventions based on a driver’s monitored stress levels.
With car sales sitting at over 65 millions vehicles globally this year, there’s plenty of data-backed opportunities to keep us both safe and healthy on the road.
Responsible drivers take care of their vehicles. Tune-ups and regular maintenance are important to protect our investment. But in 2023, we’ll see our vehicles taking care of us too. The automotive industry is booming with multi-modal AI technologies, self-care being a top priority, and money flooding in. Your car can become an oasis of well-being.
