Exciting innovations in automotive technology are introduced every year: from new safety features to the latest in in-car entertainment amenities. The model year 2009 presents an exciting array of new car technologies that aim to enhance how our automotive experience. Even with a crisis facing the automotive industry, the demand for new technologies that will enhance safety, entertainment, comfort and connectivity will has nowhere to go but up. Here’s a rundown of the top new car technologies for the 2009 model year.

Adaptive Cruise Control – also known as active or intelligent cruise control, ACC uses radar and/or laser sensors usually located behind the grille to determine the speed and distance of the vehicle in front. It maintains the vehicle’s pre-set speed and adjusts it accordingly to maintain the proper distance between vehicles in the same lane. For instance, if the vehicle in front slows down, the system sends a signal to the engine or braking system to decelerate. The system accelerates to the last speeds setting when it detects that the distance is safe again.

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BMW has unveiled a new car that can read speed limit signposts and variable limit signs and display this information on the instrument cluster. With this technology, drivers are always aware of the speed zone they are in and adjust their driving accordingly especially on roads that have several different speed zones depending on traffic flow.

A small camera installed near the interior mirror constantly monitors the signs along the road and compares this with data saved in the navigation system. The camera will be able to read painted metal signs as well as dynamic digital displays. The date recorded by the camera is given priority and the speed allowed is displayed through the instrument cluster or in the head-up display on the car’s windscreen. This will significantly reduce the risk of breaking the speed limit by mistake.

Still, the BMW Speed Limit Display is an information system only. It will not intervene in the control of the vehicle or its speed. Maintaining a correct and safe speed is still the sole responsibility of the driver. The new Speed Limit Display will be available in the new BMW 7 Series set to be unveiled in Europe later this year.

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