2021 Auto Trends

Goodbye 2020, hello 2021! We’re quite confident to say you look forward to a new year. As auto technicians and service providers, we keep our eye on developing technology and industry trends so we are prepared to serve our customers.

This past year has been disruptive on the auto manufacturing industry in more ways than one. COVID protocols stalled imports and exports of auto parts, assembly plants were closed and sales volumes dropped significantly. Pandemic events caused a shift from public transportation to the number one trend predicted for 2021 – personal vehicle ownership. Commuting needs are reduced with more employees logging in on a remote basis, and social isolating has increased demands for private transportation. Societal trends toward eco-consciousness and reducing carbon footprints on an individual basis has led to a growing interest, investments, and developments in battery technology for the electric vehicle industry. As an example of battery improvement, the new Tesla Model 3 will get 263 miles (423 kilometers) of range before needing a charge.

The use of diagnostics will continue to increase as a standard part of the repair process. Diagnostic scans reveal trouble codes to properly restore a vehicle’s safety systems. See our YouTube video for more information: T & H AutoPro

Another trend we’ve noted is AI (artificial intelligence) based smart travel. Self driving cars will lead vehicle applications in computer technology as Google continues with the Waymo project. Already, Tesla’s autopilot enables your car to steer, accelerate and brake automatically within its lane. Currently, Tesla’s smart summon function allows the Model 3 to pull out of its parking spot and drive to your location autonomously (within 200 feet) via a smartphone app. What will 2021 bring in AI integration? We will just have to wait and see how the new year unfolds.