It’s hard to fathom that back in the 1980s automated windows were considered a luxury item; an example of cutting edge technology. Now it’s all on-board computers, and laser-guided cruise control systems. But if you think technology has come a long way already, just sit back in those heated (and probably cooled) seats of yours and get a look at what’s coming in 2009. Experts at Autotrader.com, the ultimate automotive marketplace, provide some insights on these technological advances. 

1/ Satellite radio service Sirius-XM

It’s become nearly ubiquitous on new vehicles these days, but that’s not where modern entertainment options will end. With new Bluetooth technologies and better cell phone syncing, drivers are being given fuller control of their mobile/smart phones through the vehicle’s 'infotainment system'. This will allow the direct streaming of Internet radio through services such as Slacker and Pandora. You will also have the ability to change the station without ever having to take your hands off the wheel. Wowzers.

2/ HD radio
Traditional FM radio isn’t taking these challenges to its in-car dominance without a fight. More auto manufacturers will be equipping their vehicles with HD radio units straight from the factory. HD radio provides clearer digital audio, allowing FM and even AM broadcasters to stream additional programming options with better sound quality and none of the fade issues common to traditional broadcast.

3/ Microsoft Sync

Controlling all these infotainment systems will be services like Microsoft Sync. Sync allows drivers to control a wide variety of Microsoft and Apple devices through spoken commands. And unlike various predecessors, Microsoft Sync can really understand what it is you’re trying to say without you needing to shout at it... several times.

4/ Real time navigation
A very basic in-car navigation system was first conceived and created for a super-high-tech GM concept car in the late 1950s. It was a long time before in-car navigation became affordable, but it’s now possible to equip pretty much any car, even starter and entry level cars, with a full-featured navigation unit. Flashier systems have now been upgraded to include real-time traffic alerts - designed to route you around blockages on the highway - and real-time weather information that allows drivers to steer clear of freak rain storms or sudden snowfall. And up next: real-time parking information, meaning you’ll never have to hunt for that elusive space at the mall on December 24th, ever again.

5/ Entertainment
With satellite and Internet connectivity , compact computers, phones and mobile entertainment devices (vs. DVD players or on-board game consoles), passengers will have multiple, personalized entertainment options. While mom drives, dad can be watching CNBC; while one kid plays a video game and the other watches a movie. Each will have their own monitor with individual audio jacks to keep the sound from distracting the driver or each other.

6/ Crises averted

Telematics, on-board systems that communicate with call centers or external systems, will also become more common. For example, if you’re in an accident and the airbag deploys, someone out there will be notified of it and help could soon be on the way. But the next phase is where things get really cool. Let’s say your car’s engine experiences a problem and the “check engine” light comes on. One of these systems can automatically send an error code to your dealer of choice to let them know the nature of the problem. Through the system, the dealer will already know what needs replacing and order parts before they’ve even finished scheduling your service appointment. Which, conveniently, the system can do right through a ‘concierge service’. Many of these services will also be able to be monitored and controlled via your cell phone or home computer.

7/ Be an eco-warrior

Technology won’t just help you with problems, but will save gas, too. Stop-and-go systems that shut off the motor at traffic lights can improve fuel consumption by up to 10%. First introduced in Europe, these systems are growing in popularity. They’re already in use in hybrids in the U.S.

All of these technologies are currently in the pipeline and some are already available for luxury car models. But soon it won’t be just the rich and famous that will have all the kit. We’ve still got a wait for the flying cars we were promised, but keep your eyes open for these new technologies to make driving safer, more convenient and more entertaining in the near future..

The guys at AutoTrader.com will be back soon with further indispensible car advice.