If you've ever been inside a Tesla or know someone who owns one, you know just how interesting they are, especially if you drive an older car. Teslas are equipped with all sorts of fancy gadgets that can have you feeling like you're sitting inside a spaceship, from the weird 'yoke' steering wheel on some newer models to the rear-view cameras and, of course, the massive touchscreen controlling everything.
Owning a vehicle with such futuristic gadgets may seem like an unattainable dream for gearheads who don't have tens of thousands to splurge on the latest Tesla, but it doesn't have to be. Thanks to advancements in auto technology, there are plenty of affordable high-tech gadgets you can add to just about any vehicle to make it feel more modern and add features you might need. Let's explore ten of them.
10 Head-Up Display
A head-up display(HUD) is a transparent screen that displays key information in a driver's natural line of sight, ensuring that they keep their eyes on the road at all times. Most of these HUD systems project information onto the windshield though some have a small, separate clear screen mounted upon the driver's side of the dash.
HUD systems were first used in the aviation industry, but started becoming available in the best luxury cars in the '80s. Some of the information that can be displayed on the system includes speed, navigation directions, and others.
9 Mirror Dash Cam
Many new cars now come with backup cameras as standard; some also have dashcams. However, if your car lacks these features, you can fix that using a modern mirror dashcam.
To the unassuming person, a mirror dashcam looks like an ordinary rearview mirror. However, at the touch of a button, the mirror turns into a display screen that can show you what the cameras installed in the front or rear are seeing. This can be an important tool, especially if your car has many blind spots.
8 Jump Starter
When your car battery dies, the solution usually involves asking another driver with a functional battery to help jump-start your car. That may not always be possible, especially if you're in a place where there are few people around or at night.
That's where a jump starter comes in. With this handy tool, you can get your car up and running without having to rely on anyone else. Just ensure you get one that's compatible with your vehicle and unique needs.
7 Portable Espresso Maker
If you're a coffee-lover, you probably have to make a trip to your local coffee shop every morning to get a hit. If you don't want to keep making these trips and want to save money, get yourself a portable espresso maker and get your caffeine kick right in your car.
This device can prepare your cup of coffee in minutes as you drive, and it can sit comfortably in your cup holder, waiting for you to take a sip. Say goodbye to the Starbucks drive-thru!
6 Smart Speaker
Smart speakers have become a fixed feature in many homes, and now they're slowly finding their way into cars. Smart speakers are arguably better for the car, as they boost safety by ensuring the driver can use voice commands instead of letting go of the steering wheel to operate buttons and touchscreens.
Whether you need to request a song, set reminders, stream a podcast or audio book, or check gas prices, you can do so easily using a smart speaker like the Amazon Echo Auto.
5 Portable Tire Inflator
Now, here's a gadget everyone needs in their tire repair kit - a portable inflator. With a portable tire inflator, you won't have to keep making trips to the gas station to keep your tires' pressures up to spec.
This device can also come in handy when taking an off-road trip, and you need to deflate or inflate your tires to improve maneuverability. While at it, you can also get a tire pressure monitor to detect punctures early and ensure that you always have the right amount of pressure.
4 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
The inside of a car can be a filthy place. According to a study conducted by researchers from Aston University in the UK, the inside of a typical car can host significantly higher levels of bacteria than the average toilet seat.
One way you can reduce the amount of dirt in your car is by using a vacuum cleaner. Thankfully, there are small, cordless vacuum cleaners that are perfect for getting rid of dust, crumbs, animal hairs, and other small particles in your car.
3 Wireless Phone Charger
If your car was produced in the last two years or so, it may have a wireless phone charger as standard, since the most popular newer phones have that capability. If you own an older car, though, you might have to invest in a wireless phone charger for your car.
A wireless charger can also act as a dock for your phone, allowing you to control it effortlessly as it charges up on your dashboard.
2 Breathalyzer
A breathalyzer is used to measure a person's blood alcohol content. If you're one of those people who drink before driving, a breathalyzer can be a vital safety tool, as you can use it to ensure that you're in the right state of mind to drive.
This handheld gadget can also help you avoid getting into trouble with the cops, as you'll always know whether or not you're breaking the law. In some countries, like France, all drivers must have this device in their cars.
1 Wireless Baby Monitor
If you have a child, you know how distracting it can be when they're crying or acting crazy in the back seat while you're driving. If you keep turning around to check on your baby, you could be putting your safety in danger.
To avoid this, you can invest in a wireless baby monitor. This device attaches to the headrest to provide the driver with a video view of their baby without having to turn around.