As the race towards developing the first road-legal self-driving car continues, manufacturers are shifting focus to creating new and innovative onboard technologies in what is being called the Smart Car. From Mercedes Benz to GMC, auto technology is starting to mimic our smartphones in surprising ways. When considering the path we’re on, it makes sense that the needs and desires of customers will inevitably change as cars become self-driving. Gone will be the days of driving as an activity, we’ll be more interesting in checking the weather, communicating with friends, playing games, and having quick voice commands that get us where we want to go. Of course, dealerships too must evolve with the times, but how?

The Smart Car Dealership

As engine technology becomes increasingly automated, car buyers will focus more on the auxiliary features of a vehicle than it’s engine power. Just imagine, having a full-screen wall with all the capabilities of your phone and then some, a spacious interior in which you could exercise, or take a nap, all on your way to work! As this conversion begins, dealerships will most likely start by having a few on-staff techies to deal with the tech-related issues. “Smart” as the main selling point will drive dealerships to resemble an Apple store more than what we currently think of in car sales.

Most cars manufactured today already have an extraordinary amount of smartphone-like features: voice command, automated warnings, cameras, and GPS, to name a few. But how far will we go? It’s an interesting thought, and one we can’t wait to explore more!

 

When you imagine the future car, what do you see?

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