MANCHESTER, UNITED KINGDOM — (Marketwire) — 03/04/12 — As increasing numbers of car manufacturers continue to develop and incorporate new technology to vehicles, Swinton, the UK-s leading retailer, is in full support, with these advances in technology likely to make it safer for drivers to have full access to mod-cons even when behind the wheel.
The news follows Ford-s announcement that it is to launch its new B-Max car, fitted with a range of high-tech features that will make using mobiles, mp3 players and other such devices totally handsfree and safer when in a vehicle.
According to a recent survey by Swinton, over two fifths of drivers admitted to using a mobile phone when behind the wheel, despite it being a criminal offense.
In-car technology such as Ford-s SYNC technology found in its new B-Max, allows drivers to automatically connect mobile phones and music players to the car-s stereo and speakers handsfree. Using voice activation to control these modern day gadgets, SYNC will read out SMS messages received, minimising the temptation for drivers to check their texts whilst driving.
The car industry is also using technology to help connect passengers to emergency services – the high-tech system in Ford-s new B-Max automatically contacts emergency services when an airbag is inflated or the fuel pump cut-off is activated. The technology will inform emergency services of the vehicle-s location and deliver the information in the relevant language for the location.
Steve Chelton, Claims Manager at Swinton said: “As more and more drivers rely upon mobiles and mp3 players within cars, it can be difficult to resist the temptation to use these whilst a vehicle is in motion. New technology can help to make this temptation a thing of the past and help to reduce the accidents that are caused each year by drivers who get distracted by mobiles or mp3s. Using technology to automatically connect drivers to emergency services is a great way to help reduce waiting time for those involved in road accidents.”
For more information please contact Mairead Rodden or Lucy Gordon at SKV Communications on 0161 838 7770 or email
About Swinton
Contacts:
SKV Communications
Mairead Rodden
0161 838 7770
SKV Communications
Lucy Gordon
0161 838 7770