New Tech Features From The 2016 Chicago Auto Show
The 2016 Chicago Auto Show is a showcase of the newest and most exciting new cars and features. New technology is a major facet that each brand is showcasing in their cars. Today, buyers have a litany of new features like park assist, dynamic cruise control and Bluetooth technology. However, there are some even newer tech features that not everyone knows about.
Photo by Robert Mathius
Qi Wireless Charging from Toyota
The entire Toyota lineup for the 2016 model year has been equipped with Qi Wireless Charging. Qi (pronounced Chee) allows a smartphone owner to place their device on a pad in their car and have it charge without wires via the car battery. Many phones, especially the latest ones, carry Qi capability already, but owners should consult their owner's guides or local phone store to determine if theirs is capable. Qi capability is currently available exclusively in Toyota vehicles, allowing for wireless charging and a convenient location to put a phone. Gone are the days of cup holders becoming phone receptacles. Even better, at the end of a commute the smartphone may be completely charged. Qi will likely become available in other brands as it gains more widespread recognition.
Photo by Robert Mathius
Car-Net App-Connect from Volkswagen
Maps, podcasts and voice to text instant messaging are available via Volkswagen's app-connect system. The new tech feature allows owners to select apps through a compatible smartphone on the touchscreen display in the center console of their Volkswagen. What makes this feature special is that unlike any other brand, Volkswagen's system is compatible through Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and MirrorLink. This means no matter what brand your smartphone is, it is likely compatible with the system. This is in contrast to many other brands which offer Android or Apple connectivity, instead of both. Essential apps like texting, calling, weather and traffic will be available to use. For safety's sake, apps like games are not able to be accessed.
Photo by Robert Mathius
Rain-sensing windshield wipers from Fiat
Although not a major selling feature like the earlier two technological advances, Fiat is offering something to make driving a little bit easier. Equipped on their new Fiat 124 Spider are rain-sensing windshield wipers. The wipers detect when moisture hits the windshield and turn on automatically. Even better, they can sense how hard it is raining to automatically adjust the speed of the wipers to match a light drizzle or torrential downpour.
Photo by Robert Mathius
BMW i3
Interestingly enough, a new tech feature at the 2016 Chicago Auto Show isn't just a feature, it's a whole car. The BMW i3 is a new all-electric vehicle. The i3 has the styling of the future and the capability to travel 80 miles on just battery power. With a 440 volt charger, it takes only a half hour to fully charge the i3. Nationwide, there are currently 23,000 public charging stations where owners can charge their i3 vehicles during their trip. Potential buyers will be rewarded with a federal tax credit of up to $7,500 due to the eco-friendliness of the vehicle. Prices start at $42,400.
The 2016 Chicago Auto show is often a tech-centric showcase of the finest and most exciting new features in the automotive world. The show runs through Feb. 21 at McCormick Place.
Robert Mathius is a Chicago suburb native who currently lives in Tinley Park. He has a passion for the automotive industry in addition to journalism and works to blend his two passions in his writing. Additional automotive reporting by Robert can be found on Examiner.com.
