Smartphone Integration in Cars: A Distraction or Utility?

The debate over smartphone usage while driving has been ongoing, with laws in place to reduce distractions. Yet, many modern cars are increasingly integrating digital displays for all sorts of functionalities, from entertainment to climate control. So, is this a legitimate advancement in automotive technology, or a hindrance to safe driving? Let's delve deeper into the pros and cons of this trend.

The Objective of Smart Phone Legislation

The primary objective of smartphone legislation is to eliminate distractions that may divert a driver's attention from the immediate task of driving. However, as car technology evolves, it has become common to hear the sound of a smartphone display in most vehicles, notably high-spec models. While it may be legally permissible to adjust certain settings, such as cruise control, doing so can still be a distraction, especially if you are unfamiliar with the vehicle.

Common Sense and Attitude to Risk

The answer, it seems, lies in common sense and one's attitude towards risk. If you are driving on narrow, winding country lanes and want to experiment with the A/C, it may be a high-risk activity. However, on a motorway, briefly checking or changing the radio station can be a safer practice. After all, if you are unable to play Candy Crush on this large display! The display is a feature and nothing else, serving a clear function rather than merely being a toy or distraction.

Advantages of Digital Displays

There are several advantages to digital displays over traditional analog dials. Firstly, they are more accurate in providing vital information to the driver. Secondly, they can display a plethora of data, ranging from temperature settings to fuel levels, all of which can be crucial for safe driving. Consider my old Impreza, with its straightforward knob-based heater control. It was easy to operate while driving and did not distract me from the road. In contrast, the Yeti's complex push-button controls can be confusing and difficult to manage while driving, leading to a frequent need for the passenger to adjust them.

Relying on Passenger Assistance

When driving the Yeti, I often find myself telling my wife how I want the ventilation adjusted, as the controls are too small and hard to operate safely. The Yeti's controls are designed to be input for the car's computer, requiring digital input rather than the simple analog knobs of my old car. The designers, and perhaps the manufacturers, have forgotten the old military acronym, KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid).

Modernistic and Youth-oriented Expectations

Another driver of this trend is the expectation of the youth market. Modern cars are closer to having iPads installed in the dash, blending luxury and technology seamlessly. This integration can be highly functional and aesthetically pleasing. For instance, consider the following:

Volvo: Known for its intuitive and user-friendly interface. Jeep: One model is particularly distracting, requiring menu navigation during driving. GM and Acura: Both offer a blend of digital displays and traditional dials, catering to various user preferences.

In my personal experience, the Jeep model was very distracting to change something while driving, finding it in a menu while driving. In contrast, the Honda Pilot provided a nice balance, combining digital displays with traditional dials for driving adjustments. The Honda display provided a wealth of information, but I did not find it disturbing to change screens while driving. It serves the purpose of on-road functionality without being overwhelming or distracting.

Driving Safety Reservations

I have driven various models, and while some offer a balanced blend, I wonder how many road incidents on highways are caused by individuals trying to operate digital dashboards in a unsafe manner. The logical risk remains, as attention can be diverted from the road despite the safety features in modern cars. While technology can enhance the driving experience, it is critical to maintain a balance between functionality and safety.