Automobile Protection Association

Purpose

With the rise of the smart or connected car, the auto industry has become a leader in connected technology. Current vehicle models feature the internet of things (IoT); they incorporate complex systems of devices that communicate data about the driver and vehicle performance, experience and safety. These features include Global Positioning Systems (GPS), vehicle trackers, cameras and sensors, all of which can be connected to the cloud and are meant to enhance the driver experience as well as improve safety. Current vehicle technology benefits customers with hands-free calling and texting, navigation, infotainment, voice-assistance, sensors that detect drowsiness and alert drivers who are falling asleep, sensors that detect obstacles around the vehicle, and warning sensors that indicate service to the vehicle is needed or recommended. For many years, onboard data recorders have registered details of a vehicle’s operation in the seconds before a collision; recently, the depth of information collected has increased considerably and can include video of the vehicle in the minutes before a collision.