Thanksgiving is just around the corner – a time for second helpings, second cousins, and getting through the second quarter of the Cowboys game before the tryptophan sets in.

It’s also a season that calls for introspection, for renewing your appreciation of the things that make life worth living. Whether you’re out picking up the turkey or chauffeuring the family to Grandma’s place, the constant holiday travel serves to remind us how important it is to have a reliable vehicle.

We can’t give thanks to our cars with acknowledging the recent advancements that have been made across the automotive industry. With a plethora of modern features, today’s driving experience is safer and more convenient than ever before. Before you get set to preparing Thanksgiving dinner, here’s four courses of recent and semi-recent automotive innovations we should all be thankful for:

Collision Avoidance Technology

The introduction of airbags was a huge leap forward for vehicle safety, providing a vital shield of protection following an accident. However, modern automakers are now focusing more on preventing such incidents from occurring altogether. This is where collision avoidance systems (CAS) come in and play a critical role.

The first (extremely rudimentary) rearview backup camera was introduced way back with the 1956 Buick Centurion, and today, that feature comes standard with most new vehicles. But car manufacturers’ goals have expanded to include fully-integrated driver assistance systems. These systems go beyond just alerting drivers about nearby vehicles; they can assume full command of the car’s functions to avert potential accidents. It’s the closest we’ve come to enveloping our cars in a force field (for now), and every day its presence saves lives.

Mobile App Interconnectivity

The world is more interconnected than ever, and your car plays a vital role in this never-ending web. While Bluetooth connectivity and other ways of linking your phone to your vehicle have been around for more than a decade, there has been a recent surge in the popularity of connected mobile apps.

For many car manufacturers, the integration of as many compatible applications as possible has become a top priority. In theory, it will make the transition from your home or office to your vehicle increasingly seamless. Assuming this trend continues, when it’s time to give thanks ten years from now, it might actually be easier to list the things your car isn’t capable of doing.

EcoBoost Engines

Any technological advancement becomes moot if we don’t prioritize our planet’s health first and foremost. Ford’s EcoBoost engine is a sustainable alternative to traditional engines, developed with this core belief in mind. This turbocharged petrol engine uses direct injection technology and aims to deliver comparable power and torque to standard engines, while significantly improving fuel efficiency. The result is a 20% boost in fuel economy and a 15% reduction in greenhouse emissions.

When we look ahead at the future of automobiles, electric vehicles and green-first options are bound to become more widespread. EcoBoost engines, being more affordable and versatile than conventional gas or diesel engines, will likely continue to gain popularity.

LED Headlights

Since their introduction in 2004, LED headlights have gained popularity among manufacturers, especially luxury brands. The reasons are clear – LED lights offer numerous advantages over traditional halogen and tungsten lights. These benefits include longer lifespans, better visibility, and reduced electricity consumption. As a result, LED headlights significantly reduce the cost of maintenance.

The Rest is Gravy

We have plenty to be thankful for here at Charge-A-Car – especially our loyal customers. Come check out our entire vehicle inventory. It’s a bit like an elegant Thanksgiving spread – plentiful, variable, and there for your fulfillment. Bon Appétit, and have a happy holiday!