In this article, we have the list of 10 smart car gadgets that can assist you on your journey. These gadgets range from a phone holder and a compact camera to the smart Nissan Luminar gadget, which scans the surroundings.
Related: 13 Innovative Car Gadgets
10 Best Car Gadgets 2023
Note: In these articles we link the product and when you purchase, we earn a small commission through the Affiliate Program.
1. Luminar
Luminar Technologies has set itself the ambitious goal of saving a hundred million lives and a hundred trillion hours on the road within a century. The team is working on an advanced lidar system, with a range of approximately three to five hundred meters. This lidar device utilizes pulses of laser light to scan the surrounding space and generate a temporary map, eliminating the need for an internet connection. This technology holds great promise for assisting drivers and advancing autonomous driving systems. For instance, Nissan plans to employ AI to analyze the lidar data. Luminar Technologies has already established collaborations with major automakers worldwide, including the Chinese company SAIC. The timeline for implementation varies: the Chinese R7 model equipped with this lidar has already entered production, while Mercedes-Benz aims for a launch in 2025, and Nissan expects to incorporate it by 2030.
2. VALEO PICTUREBEAM Monolithic
According to the creators of these headlights, 72 percent of fatal accidents occur at night. Their concept seems quite logical: why not let the headlights do more than just illuminate the road? In appearance, their solution resembles virtual racing simulators. For instance, the system can display the best route for safely overtaking a cyclist, and while making a turn, it can project an arrow that is visible to pedestrians and other drivers. Additionally, you can drive with high beams constantly without causing glare to oncoming traffic or pedestrians, as the headlights will automatically adjust their brightness to an optimal level. An you can installed in almost any car. All you need, a headlights, a control unit and a set of cameras.
3. KEYX
Behold this peculiar device that resembles a smartphone or PDA. It is, in fact, an all-in-one smart car key. This key offers various features, including car control. With it, you can effortlessly open or close the doors activate the alarm, control the garage doors, and even operate some home appliances such as air conditioners, TVs, and projectors. Moreover, it can duplicate key cards like NFC, RFID, and HID, which are commonly used in many companies and enterprises.
Operating this key fob is incredibly easy. The device has sufficient memory to store hundreds of remote controls and employs the US government AES encryption standard for enhanced security. With a week’s worth of charge for active use and weighing just 80 grams, it offers convenience on the go. For those seeking a touch of luxury, there’s even a version adorned with 24 karat gold. Prices start at two hundred dollars.
4. WAYRAY
Check out this cool augmented reality system! Its creators have been paid by big companies like Porsche, Hyundai Motor, and even the Alibaba Group. The system consists of three main components: RGB lasers, a projector, and a holographic element on a special film.
This system offers a range of options, including object recognition, a map with navigation, speed display, estimated time of arrival, and even access to the metaverse. The most exciting feature is that virtual objects can be embedded at any distance from the car, creating a realistic experience where trajectory lines feel like actual road markings.
The team has had a great year in 2021. They showcased the holograph tour, an electric car equipped with the AR system that can also be controlled remotely and has other impressive features. Their plan is to transform it into a production vehicle, so let’s wish them good luck and success in perfecting both the system and the car.
5. THOR Exhaust System
Here’s an interesting update on electric car renovations: it turns out that even the exhaust system can be revolutionized. Automakers are under pressure to create quieter, fuel-efficient, and environmentally friendly engines. As a result, even premium models often lack a satisfying exhaust sound. However, for those who crave the symphony of a car, such as the Porsche Panamera, the Thor electronic exhaust system has been developed.
The Thor electronic exhaust system is easy to install. It involves placing one or two speakers underneath the car and a control unit in the cabin, connected via the CAN bus. You can choose your desired sports car sound and surprise other drivers as you drive by. The system features real car sounds and takes into account the position of the gas pedal. Prices for this system start at $1,350.
6. ANCOL CTIS
How about a gadget that allows you to adjust the tire pressure on the go? It’s a pretty cool feature because you can control the pressure for each individual wheel with a remote control. This system offers several great benefits. First benefit is your tires will last 30 percent longer, and you’ll save up to 20 percent on fuel consumption. Additionally, it reduces the risk of aquaplaning and decreases braking distance.
The system is compatible with all kinds of vehicles, ranging from cars to mining machinery. With its patented connection, you can even pump air at speeds of up to 200 kilometers per hour. It operates within a pressure range of 2 to 25 bar, and if it detects a flat tire, it automatically inflates it.
This system proves to be useful year-round, especially for off-road adventures in mud and snow. If you’re interested, the price is available upon request on its official site.
7. SLAMSTOP Car Door Sub-Closer
Here’s an interesting question that could be asked in an intellectual quiz: How hard should you push a car door to close it without getting on the driver’s nerves? Well, the creators of the Slam Stop door closer have an answer. Simply give it a gentle push, and the smart mechanism will take over, smoothly closing the door for you.
This clever device is discreetly installed inside both the front and rear doors, hidden behind the door panel. It not need any modifications to your car and is designed to last for approximately 30,000 cycles, which translates to about 8 to 10 years according to the product description. This innovative addition will give your car that special touch.
Interestingly, door closers like this used to be found only in premium cars. However, now you can get one for around two hundred dollars for two doors, depending on the model.
8. STONKAM 12.3-INCH ELECTRONIC REARVIEW MIRROR
These days, rearview mirrors are becoming increasingly smarter, not only do they have blind spot monitoring, but they also come with a built-in video recorder. On this gadget activating the video recorder takes just three seconds, and the recorded data is displayed on a 12.3-inch LCD screen at 1920×720 pixels resolutions.
What’s really cool about these mirrors is that each one can be connected to two cameras, including one with night vision, providing a dual perspective. Since the mirrors are located inside the cabin, they are not affected by rain or other weather conditions. The recorded footage can be saved on an SD card or directly transferred to your smartphone via Wi-Fi.
With these smart rearview mirrors, drivers can have an added layer of safety and convenience. They provide a comprehensive view of the surroundings, assist in eliminating blind spots, and record important moments on the road. It’s a technology that enhances the driving experience and contributes to safer journeys.
9. LED Performance Steering
Even steering wheels are keeping up with the times, and Now, you can get a steering wheel with a built-in screen. The price of these steering wheels varies depending on the model. For example, the one designed for the Lexus IS is priced at six hundred and forty dollars.
The cost of this model is justified by its features, such as carbon fiber, leather, and enhanced comfort inspired by racing. It’s designed to provide a more comfortable grip for your hands. The built-in screen offers a range of interesting features. You can view fuel consumption, temperature data, speed, and even lap times on the racetrack.
The wireless smart transmitter connects through the OBD socket, reducing installation time. However, it is still recommended to have a professional handle the installation process to ensure proper setup and functionality. With these technologically advanced steering wheels, drivers can enjoy both style and functionality.
10. PARROT MKI9000
Smartphones are responsible for 10% of accidents in Europe, according to 2019 statistics. They cause driver distractions, leading to reduced attentiveness. Shockingly, just two seconds of smartphone use at a speed of 50 kilometers per hour can result in driving blindly for 28 meters. This French company’s kit provides a timely solution.
The kit features a special joystick that attaches to the steering wheel, allowing calls to be made or received without distracting from the road. The microphone impresses with its noise and echo cancellation, ensuring clear communication through the car speakers. And, you can even record conversations and use voice commands, such as scrolling through your phone book.
The kit supports Bluetooth connection for two smartphones. And, the manufacturer offers a version of the kit with a screen, which may compromise safety. It is important to prioritize safe driving practices and minimize distractions caused by smartphone usage.
By implementing this kit, drivers can maintain better focus on the road while still staying connected. It provides a convenient and hands-free solution for managing phone calls, allowing drivers to prioritize safety while enjoying the benefits of smartphone connectivity.
