The world of automotive technology is rapidly evolving, with new features and innovations being introduced every year. One feature that has gained significant attention in recent years is the dash cam. A dash cam, short for dashboard camera, is a small camera mounted on the dashboard or windshield of a vehicle to record the road ahead. But do new cars come with dash cams? In this article, we’ll explore the trend of dash cams in new cars and what you can expect from manufacturers.
The Rise of Dash Cams
Dash cams have been around for several years, but they’ve gained popularity in recent times due to their ability to provide evidence in case of an accident. Many drivers have started using dash cams as a way to protect themselves from false claims and to provide proof of their innocence in case of a collision. In addition to their practical uses, dash cams have also become popular among driving enthusiasts who use them to record their driving experiences and share them on social media.
Benefits of Dash Cams
So, why are dash cams becoming increasingly popular? Here are some benefits of using a dash cam:
- Accident evidence: A dash cam can provide valuable evidence in case of an accident, helping to prove your innocence and prevent false claims.
- Improved driving habits: Knowing that your driving is being recorded can encourage you to drive more safely and responsibly.
- Insurance benefits: Some insurance companies offer discounts to drivers who use dash cams, as they can help to reduce the risk of accidents and false claims.
- Entertainment: Dash cams can be used to record your driving experiences and share them on social media.
Do New Cars Come with Dash Cams?
While dash cams are becoming increasingly popular, they are not yet a standard feature in new cars. However, some manufacturers are starting to offer dash cams as an optional feature or as part of a larger safety package.
Manufacturers That Offer Dash Cams
Some manufacturers that offer dash cams in their vehicles include:
- Subaru: Subaru offers a dash cam system called “EyeSight” in some of its models, which includes a camera and sensors to detect and respond to potential hazards.
- Toyota: Toyota offers a dash cam system called “Safety Sense” in some of its models, which includes a camera and sensors to detect and respond to potential hazards.
- Hyundai: Hyundai offers a dash cam system called “SmartSense” in some of its models, which includes a camera and sensors to detect and respond to potential hazards.
Types of Dash Cams Used in New Cars
There are several types of dash cams that can be used in new cars, including:
Single-Lens Dash Cams
Single-lens dash cams are the most common type of dash cam used in new cars. They have a single camera lens that records the road ahead and can be mounted on the dashboard or windshield.
Dual-Lens Dash Cams
Dual-lens dash cams have two camera lenses, one that records the road ahead and another that records the interior of the vehicle. This type of dash cam is useful for capturing evidence of accidents and for monitoring the behavior of passengers.
360-Degree Dash Cams
360-degree dash cams have multiple camera lenses that record the road ahead, behind, and around the vehicle. This type of dash cam provides a complete view of the surroundings and can be useful for capturing evidence of accidents.
Features to Expect from Dash Cams in New Cars
Dash cams in new cars can come with a range of features, including:
- High-definition video recording: Dash cams in new cars can record high-definition video, providing clear and detailed footage of the road ahead.
- Wide-angle lens: Dash cams in new cars can have a wide-angle lens, providing a broader view of the road ahead.
- Night vision: Dash cams in new cars can have night vision capabilities, allowing them to record footage in low-light conditions.
- GPS and Wi-Fi connectivity: Dash cams in new cars can have GPS and Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing them to provide location data and upload footage to the cloud.
Conclusion
While dash cams are not yet a standard feature in new cars, they are becoming increasingly popular among manufacturers. Some manufacturers offer dash cams as an optional feature or as part of a larger safety package. Dash cams can provide a range of benefits, including accident evidence, improved driving habits, insurance benefits, and entertainment. If you’re in the market for a new car, it’s worth considering a model that comes with a dash cam or looking into aftermarket options.
| Manufacturer | Model | Dash Cam Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Subaru | Forester | EyeSight |
| Toyota | Corolla | Safety Sense |
| Hyundai | Elantra | SmartSense |
Note: The table above is not an exhaustive list of manufacturers and models that offer dash cams. It’s always best to check with the manufacturer or dealership for the most up-to-date information on dash cam features.
Are dash cams becoming a standard feature in new cars?
Dash cams are increasingly being considered as a standard feature in new cars. Many car manufacturers have already started integrating dash cams into their vehicles, and this trend is expected to continue in the future. The main reason for this is the growing demand for safety and security features in cars.
As technology advances, dash cams are becoming more sophisticated and can provide a range of benefits, including accident evidence, theft protection, and even driver monitoring. Additionally, many insurance companies are now offering discounts to drivers who have dash cams installed in their vehicles, which is further driving the demand for this feature.
What are the benefits of having a dash cam in a new car?
Having a dash cam in a new car can provide a range of benefits, including accident evidence, theft protection, and even driver monitoring. In the event of an accident, a dash cam can provide valuable evidence of what happened, which can be used to support insurance claims or even in court. Additionally, dash cams can deter thieves and vandals, as they provide a visible warning that the vehicle is being monitored.
Dash cams can also provide driver monitoring, which can be useful for parents who want to keep an eye on their teenage drivers or for fleet managers who want to monitor their drivers’ behavior. Some dash cams can even provide real-time alerts and notifications, which can help to prevent accidents and improve driver safety.
Which car manufacturers are already offering dash cams as a standard feature?
Several car manufacturers are already offering dash cams as a standard feature in some of their models. These include Hyundai, Kia, and Subaru, which offer dash cams as part of their safety and security packages. Other manufacturers, such as Toyota and Ford, offer dash cams as an optional feature that can be added to certain models.
It’s worth noting that the availability of dash cams as a standard feature can vary depending on the country and region. In some countries, dash cams are more common and are often required by law, while in others they are less common and may only be available as an optional feature.
How do dash cams work in new cars?
Dash cams in new cars typically work by using a camera and sensor system to record video and audio footage of the road ahead. The camera is usually mounted on the windshield or rear window, and the sensor system uses GPS and other technologies to detect and record important events, such as accidents or near-misses.
The footage recorded by the dash cam is usually stored on a memory card or in the cloud, and can be accessed and reviewed later. Some dash cams can also provide real-time alerts and notifications, which can help to prevent accidents and improve driver safety. Additionally, some dash cams can integrate with other safety features, such as lane departure warning systems and blind spot monitoring.
Can I install a dash cam in my existing car?
Yes, it is possible to install a dash cam in your existing car. There are many different types of dash cams available, ranging from basic models that simply record video footage to more advanced models that provide additional features such as GPS and Wi-Fi connectivity.
Installing a dash cam in your existing car is usually a relatively straightforward process that can be done at home or by a professional installer. Most dash cams come with a mounting kit that allows you to attach the camera to your windshield or rear window, and some models can even be hardwired into your car’s electrical system.
Are there any laws or regulations governing the use of dash cams in cars?
Yes, there are laws and regulations governing the use of dash cams in cars. These laws vary depending on the country and region, but in general, they are designed to ensure that dash cams are used in a way that is safe and respectful of other road users.
In some countries, dash cams are required by law, while in others they are prohibited or subject to certain restrictions. For example, some countries have laws that prohibit the use of dash cams that have a screen or display, as these can be distracting for drivers. It’s always a good idea to check the laws and regulations in your area before installing a dash cam in your car.
What is the future of dash cams in new cars?
The future of dash cams in new cars is likely to be shaped by advances in technology and changing consumer demand. As technology continues to improve, we can expect to see more sophisticated dash cams that provide additional features and benefits, such as advanced driver monitoring and real-time alerts and notifications.
Additionally, the increasing demand for safety and security features in cars is likely to drive the adoption of dash cams as a standard feature in new cars. Many car manufacturers are already investing heavily in the development of advanced safety features, and dash cams are likely to play a key role in this trend.