- Any technology that is perennially evolving at a dynamic rate is stating the obvious. The global community has witnessed some of the most cutting-edge technologies in humankind, not only aiding the development aspect itself to an unprecedented extent, but also facilitating such human-friendly measures, making our lives so much more exciting/easy. While the advent of technology, especially the mind-boggling advancements in the information-technology-driven digitalization measures have taken the whole world by storm, the accompanying challenges associated with the same have also emerged, much to the concern of all. Of course, the whole universe has heavily invested in making these technology-driven initiatives for its respective citizens.
PC: HT Auto
- However, some lingering concerns are coming to the fore rising concerns about the continued usage of technology in an adverse manner. It goes without saying that the bottom line of any inventionmust be to serve society, thereby allowing the ease of living to take precedence over everything else. And in doing so, safety, security, and general well-being should be duly ensured by preempting hazardous outcomes. Undoubtedly, every authority would go out of its way to ensure safety aspects are not compromised, and the utmost standards are in place to rule out future mishaps. In hindsight, the latest technologies themselves, proving to be dangerous and counterproductive during critical moments, are coming to the fore quite regularly of late.
PC: Pimp My EV
- Let’s dwelve on the touchscreens in cars. As we know, in 2012, Tesla pioneered automatic door handles on its Model S. The goal was to look cool, with aerodynamics being the justification. Since then, others, including at least one Indian carmaker, have flattered it with imitation. As customers, we should expect real door handles by limiting touchscreens in cars. Nonetheless, looks like 2016 is the year this handle becomes history. China, the biggest car market, has decided to ban it next Jan due to serious safety issues. Since Tesla sells 40% of its cars in China, the design change will have to be global. The US is also examining complaints, meanwhile, so nopoint dilly-dallying. And good riddance, because scores of drivers and passengers have been trapped inside cars. How?
PC: InsideEVs
- Because of smart handles. Last year, a Chinese man died inside his burning Xiaomi SU7 Ultra. In 2019, a Florida anesthesiologist met the same terrible fate inside his Model S. In Dec 2023, a Virginia resident couple was trapped inside their burning Model Y. By the time the lady was pulled out, she had serious facial burns and lung damage from inhaled smoke. What good is a handle that’s inaccessible when you need it most? It shouldn’t have remained on the market for 14 years. So, well done, China. Now, India should send a strong message to carmakers by stopping the fungus of touchscreens on dashboards. Touch interfaces are big distractions and riskier. Switches and dials are safer. Indian authorities can crack the whip on this front.
