Will dashboards internet dent safety records? 

We have the full loaded Music systems that include CD, FM/AM radio and Tape playing options. We also have USB ports and the DVD players and screens. In addition to the car driving control all drivers need to manage the music system operation as well. And it may not be out of place to mention that half the time is spent on selecting the choice music or cutting out the disappointing one in keeping with each of the car occupants’ choice.

Added to this we have the GPRS which may be a boon as well as a bane when it comes to distraction. We also have the means to connect accessories like electric shavers and chargers for mobile sets and so on. Using them while driving is certainly an added distraction. No one will dispute this. Now we have a new thing that has the potential of occupying the prime place in the music console area, and will stay in the dashboard of car and carriers for years to come.

The internet dashboard or ‘infotainment system’ is the next in-car device. While it is going to be a sensational introduction and a very useful feature on the dashboard digital console, it has the potential of being a highly distracting feature. It could cause a major distraction to drivers, says a spokesman from IAM ( Intstitute of Advanced Motorists). Other similar systems have been previewed at trade shows.

At this year’s Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, during January 2010 Ford has unveiled the MyFord Touch, a system that provides drivers with an internet connection a a touch screen dashboard computer. lAM chief examiner Peter Rodger said: “If drivers are tempted to use the internet and watch videos on the move the results can be deadly”. With visuals and videos being available on all subjects round the clock and around the world, all 365 days in a year, the world wide web could well trap many of the drivers around the world on its web! And its anybody's guess whether the attention of drivers will be on driving or browsing!.