Tech and Safety Features in New Cars: The Good and the Not-So-Great
When it comes to buying a new car, the abundance of tech and safety features can either be a blessing or a curse. According to J.D. Power’s 2024 U.S. Tech Experience Index Study, owners have mixed feelings about the plethora of features in modern vehicles.
The study, which ranks vehicle features based on a “problems per 100 vehicles” (PP100) scale, found that gesture controls received a PP100 score of 43.4. While some owners praised this feature, stating that it added a touch of futuristic vibe to their driving experience, others found it frustrating and felt that it lacked functionality. This disparity in opinions highlights the polarizing nature of advanced vehicle tech.
Hands-free driving assistance systems, another popular tech feature, didn’t fare well in terms of usefulness. Owners reported low scores for these systems, and even the more advanced versions didn’t receive much appreciation. It seems that some buyers are skeptical about the practicality and reliability of these technologies.
However, not all advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) received negative reviews. Features like blind spot monitoring, which directly address a specific need while driving, were well-received by owners. Unlike more innovative but potentially confusing technologies, blind spot monitoring offers a clear and understandable benefit.
On the other hand, passenger display screens didn’t strike a chord with many owners. A significant number of respondents classified this feature as “not necessary.” Despite automakers’ efforts to include more screens in higher-end models, J.D. Power’s study revealed that only 10% of vehicles regularly have front passengers. Moreover, dealers have struggled to educate owners on how to effectively use these displays, leading to their underutilization.
Interestingly, even tech-forward automaker Tesla faced challenges in this year’s study. While Tesla has been at the forefront of automotive technology, the expansion of its customer base from early adopters to more mainstream buyers has caused some growing pains. Certain features in Tesla’s repertoire, like the direct driver monitoring system, received negative feedback from owners. This suggests that not all advanced technologies are foolproof, and automakers must carefully consider the user experience before implementing new features.
To gather data for the study, J.D. Power collected responses from nearly 82,000 owners of 2024 model-year vehicles within 90 days of their purchase. This year, the organization introduced a new return on investment analysis, which aims to help automakers determine the most beneficial tech features for their new vehicle models. By considering the practicality, functionality, and user experience of these features, automakers can better cater to the needs and expectations of their customers.
In conclusion, while new cars are filled with an array of tech and safety features, not all of them are universally adored by owners. The J.D. Power study highlights the divergent opinions regarding various technologies. Features that directly address specific needs, such as blind spot monitoring, are well-received, while others, like gesture controls and passenger display screens, face criticism for their lack of functionality or necessity. Automakers, including tech leaders like Tesla, must ensure that their advanced features are user-friendly and practical. By leveraging data and understanding customer preferences, they can provide a more satisfying and rewarding tech experience for new car buyers.
