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Sep 19, 2019
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The Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, and other disruptive innovations have taken hold of the automotive industry. Current functional and manufacturing trends are sure to continue having an impact by 2020 and beyond. Whether you choose a new Volkswagen SUV or any other popular automotive brand, here are a few trends to look out for:

Automotive Industry Trends of 2020

Several future trends in the automotive industry can already be seen. Electric/hybrid vehicles are rapidly gaining popularity. Industry leaders believe electric vehicles will represent 10% of new vehicle sales by 2025, while hybrids will account for 40% of the market share.1

However, the auto industry isn’t only being reshaped by in-car technology. New business models may include a global methodology that expands the global reach of companies, helping them adapt to local regulations and requirements. With the introduction of automation systems, such as autonomously guided vehicles, fewer human roles will be needed on the shop floor and assembly line. However, the need for data and software engineers will increase, as plants in the car industry become more digital.

What’s Happening Now

Volkswagen has already invested in the future. Thus, if you purchase a new VW SUV in the not-too-distant future, some of these innovative methodologies may be in play:

  • A Self-Learning Factory: Automated systems are leveraging artificial intelligence at Glaserne Manufaktur in Dresden, Germany. Self-learning robots that can imitate body movement are already in use and learning complex tasks with the aid of machine-learning programs.
  • Use of Blockchain Models: Cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin are gaining potential as blockchain systems are applied to automotive innovations in logistics, as well as those related to the security of self-driving vehicles, vehicle maintenance, and tamper-proof odometers.
  • Quantum Computing: A quantum computing partnership has been forged between the Volkswagen Group and Google. This arrangement may leverage abstract mathematics and high-speed calculations, which can help in traffic and route planning, among other mobility applications.

What’s to Come

Volkswagen is helping drive a few automotive industry trends. Some of the latest VW developments are reflecting technologies like:

  • Remote Parking: A remote control or app may soon be all that’s needed to park your car. Upon your prompt, the engine starts and the vehicle parks itself. The technology was first introduced at the Consumer Electronics Show 2015 in Las Vegas.
  • Gesture Control: Innovative Gesture Control, a development by Volkswagen, will eliminate the need for dashboard buttons and switches. The first iteration may be a 3D camera and sensors that read your hand gestures to open the sunroof.
  • Expansion of Driver Assist Features: A few years ago, Digital Trends predicted dramatic improvements in driver-assist features by 2021. These are already taking hold in the form of crash avoidance, brake assist, and other features, but production-ready self-driving vehicles may soon be on the market.2

person driving a new electric vehicle from inside

Find the Latest VW’s at Jeff D’Ambrosio Volkswagen

Some of the latest Volkswagen innovations are available in the latest model year vehicles. You can find these in our Downingtown dealership’s inventory. To learn more, take a virtual tour here on our website or make an appointment at our physical location. Contact our sales department at 888-585-7794 or visit our New Vehicles page now to see our latest models.

Sources:

  1. https://www.industryweek.com/blog/what-will-automotive-industry-look-2025
  2. https://www.digitaltrends.com/cars/the-future-of-car-tech-a-10-year-timeline/