An internet-connected car could become the norm, with features including speech recognition, and internet connection with Wi-Fi and 3G, according to a new industry survey.
The poll of 200 car executives, conducted by KPMG, found more than a third (37%) believe “infotainment” in cars is nearly as important as car safety.
Car manufacturers are expected to continue joining forces with music, telecoms and IT companies.
Over the next five years car buyers will see in-car gadgets provided by big firms like Google, Apple, Microsoft and LG, among others.
The study noted a recent collaboration between Toyota and Intel announced at the end of last year and Audi developing a built-in 3G wireless in its A7, with plans to extend it to other new models.
John Leech from KPMG says some car manufacturers are already making “connected” cars.
“The recent collaboration between Toyota and Intel was announced at the end of last year,” he said.
“Intel claims that the connected car is the third-fastest growing technological device, following smartphones and tablets. For a car maker that offers huge potential.”
Hybrid cars will also get the most investme¬nt over the next five years according to 53 percent of the car executives surveyed.
But 61 percent also believe developments in normal petrol and diesel engines will still be attractive offering consumers greater efficiency and CO2 reduction.
