Watching the Jetsons after school is one of many memories I have from my childhood.  I’d go my great aunt’s after school until my parents  picked me up and watch it along with other cartoons.  I always thought a car that could fly in the air was so cool!  Well, we still aren’t there yet, but modern technology certainly advances our way of life each and every day.

I recently came across some information about amenities that could soon be a part of your Chicago BMW.  Several car giants are making the Internet a reality in some of their autos.  It’s only a matter of time before the craze catches on to other models, especially ones that will make their way to a BMW dealer in Chicago.

Right now, in-car technology, such as navigation systems, has to be purchased and then installed with specific hardware so it operates properly.   The new system, by using a touch screen, would only require software to set it up.  For example, the new MyFord Touch allows a touch screen to go from a navigation tool to a music selector to finding the nearest Italian restaurant, much like the iPhone and it’s various applications.

Certain carmakers, such as BMW, are already experimenting with Internet in some of their Chicago BMW models.  According to one analyst in the industry, in the next 5 years, 1 of every 4 autos on the road (25%) will be connected to the Internet.  We certainly rely on it now more than ever, but is it really safe to have in your car?

Safety is one aspect that has been considered and studied closely.  If it’s illegal to text while driving, or talk on a cell while in a construction zone, how can you be “online” while cruising down 355?  The answer is voice-activation, all of this would be hands free.  Experts working in this arena are also saying that the touch screens would have advanced safety systems, such as alerting you if the car is going to fast and slowing it down to avoid an accident.

All of this is very interesting.  I think there’s something to be said about concentrating on driving properly and keeping passengers safe.  So much activity, even hands free, can cause you distractions and make for unsafe driving…..What do you think?  Weigh in on our blog!