Top 9 Necessary Car Amenities When Buying a New Car

Car amenities is a set of features and technologies integrated into the vehicle to enhance comfort, safety and convenience for the user.

A 2022 study published in IEEE Vehicular Technology Magazine found that “78% of new car buyers consider convenience features to be very important in their purchase decision, reflecting the growing influence of technology in the automotive industry.”

There are 9 top amenities that you should consider when buying a new car: central screen, head-up display, 360-degree camera, windshield defroster button, rear window lock button, steering wheel adjustment button, position memory setting button, wireless charging system and independent zone air conditioning.

Choosing the right amenities plays an important role in enhancing the driving experience and comfort for the user. Therefore, if you need to buy a new car, do not miss the following detailed article.

Large Center Screen

The large center display is the multi-function control center of modern cars. The average screen size ranges from 8 to 12 inches, with some high-end models equipped with screens up to 15 inches.

The system integrates many features such as GPS navigation, audio system control, smartphone connectivity and vehicle information display.

Main advantages of large central screen:

• Intuitive user interface (UI).
• Multimedia integration capabilities.
• Supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Improved ergonomics in the cabin.

According to a report by MarketsandMarkets, the automotive display market is expected to reach $30,4 billion by 2025, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8,2% from 2020 to 2025.

Head Up Display (HUD)

Head-up display (HUD) is an advanced technology that displays important information directly into the driver's field of vision. HUD uses the principle of light reflection to project information onto the windshield or a transparent glass panel placed in front of the driver.

Displayed information typically includes vehicle speed, navigation instructions, safety warnings, and the status of driver assistance systems.

Key benefits of HUD:

• Minimize driver distraction.
• Improved response time.
• Enhance situational awareness.
• Enhance the aesthetics and technology of the car interior.

According to data from Global Market Insights, the automotive HUD market is expected to reach a value of $9 billion by 2026, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 23% from 2020 to 2026. This growth shows the growing importance of HUD in the automotive industry.

360 Degree Camera Around Car

A 360-degree surround-view camera system provides a panoramic view of the vehicle's surroundings, allowing the driver to easily observe and control the vehicle in complex situations. This system typically consists of 4 to 6 wide-angle cameras placed in strategic locations on the vehicle, combined with advanced image processing software to create a bird's-eye view of the vehicle and its surroundings.

Advantages of 360 degree camera:

• Precise parking assistance.
• Minimize blind spots.
• Improve safety when driving in narrow spaces.
• Integration with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

A study by NHTSA found that the use of 360-degree cameras can reduce accidents involving rear-end collisions by up to 17%. This system not only improves safety but also increases driver confidence, especially in complex urban driving situations.

Front and Rear Car Windshield Defroster Button

The windshield defroster is an important feature that helps ensure clear visibility for the driver in inclement weather conditions. The system uses heating wires integrated into the windshield to melt ice, fog, and moisture from the glass surface.

The main benefits of windshield defrosters are improved visibility in bad weather, increased driving safety, reduced winter vehicle preparation time, and protection of the windshield from ice damage.

According to statistics, 95% of new car models are equipped with front and rear windshield defroster as a standard feature. The latest technology in this field uses conductive oxide coating to create a faster and more uniform drying effect, with a cleaning time of only 30 seconds at -18°C, and a 30% reduction in power consumption compared to traditional systems.

Rear Seat Window Lock Button

The rear window lock button is an important safety feature, especially for families with small children. This function allows the driver or front passenger to control the opening and closing of the rear window, preventing unwanted accidents.

Advantages of rear window lock button:

• Enhance child safety.
• Minimize driver distraction.
• Control cabin temperature and noise.
• Prevent theft while parking with obstacle detection sensor.

According to a survey by the Automotive Safety Council, 87% of parents consider rear window locks a “very important” feature when buying a family car. This system is often integrated with the electronic child lock function, creating a comprehensive protection system for rear passengers.

Steering Wheel Control Button

The steering wheel adjustment knob is an important ergonomic feature, allowing the driver to customize the steering wheel position in 4 directions to achieve the most comfortable and safe driving position. This system usually allows adjustment in two axes up/down (tilt) and in/out (telescopic).

The main benefits of steering wheel adjustment are to optimize driving posture, reduce fatigue during long-distance driving, improve vehicle control and enhance safety by ensuring clear visibility of the dashboard.

According to research by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), properly adjusted steering wheels can reduce the risk of neck and shoulder injuries in the event of an accident by up to 40%. Today's most advanced steering wheel adjustment systems use electric motors and can store different drivers' preferred positions.

Seat Memory System Setting Button

The seat memory system is a convenient feature that stores and automatically adjusts the seat, rearview mirror and steering wheel positions to the driver's preferences. Typically, the system can store 2 to 3 different configurations.

Advantages of seat position memory system:

• Save time adjusting when changing drivers by storing up to 5 different configurations.
• Ensures optimal driving position every time by automatically adjusting mirrors, steering wheel and pedals.
• Enhance vehicle personalization and improve user experience with integrated driver recognition system.

A JD Power survey found that 78% of car owners equipped with a seat memory system rated the feature as “very useful.”

Wireless Charging System In Car

Wireless charging in cars is a modern convenience that allows compatible mobile devices to be charged without the use of cables. This technology uses the principle of electromagnetic induction to transfer energy from the car's built-in charger to the mobile device.

Wireless car chargers are compatible with both Android and iOS operating systems, increasing convenience for users. Charging capacity up to 15W, Qi 1.3 charging standard, seamlessly integrated with the car interior.

According to a report by Allied Market Research, the automotive wireless charging market is expected to reach $13,5 billion by 2025, with a CAGR of 31,7% from 2018 to 2025. The latest technology in this field is geared towards increasing charging power to enable fast charging of modern mobile devices.

Zone-Based Air Conditioning

The independent zone air conditioning system allows for separate temperature and airflow adjustment for each area in the vehicle. Typically, this system divides the cabin into 2 to 4 independent control zones, reducing energy consumption by 15% compared to traditional systems and eliminating up to 99,97% of PM2.5 fine dust particles.

Advantages of independent zone air conditioning:

• Increase comfort for all passengers with precise temperature control up to 0,5 degrees Celsius.
• Reduce temperature conflicts between passengers.
• Optimize energy efficiency.
• Improve cabin air quality.

A study by the Automotive Climate Control Suppliers Association found that 92% of users of zoned climate control systems reported higher levels of satisfaction than those with traditional climate control systems. The latest technology in this field also incorporates air quality sensors and HEPA filtration systems to ensure a clean and safe in-car environment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Amenities

1. What should you pay attention to when choosing amenities for a new car?

Choose amenities wisely, balancing needs, budget and importance to optimize the driving experience and value of the vehicle.

• Budget: Determine your vehicle budget and allocate equipment appropriately, avoiding exceeding your financial capacity. Prioritize essential equipment first.
• Usage: Consider your daily travel needs, the number of people using the vehicle, the purpose of use (work, family, travel, etc.), and your regular activities to choose the right equipment. For example, if you often travel long distances, adaptive cruise control will be very useful.
• Importance: Classify the importance of each piece of equipment. Safety is always the top priority, followed by convenience and entertainment.
• Features and technology: Learn about the features and technology of each equipment, compare between versions and options of different models. Make sure the selected equipment works well and is compatible with other equipment in the vehicle.
• Real-world experience: If possible, experience the vehicle's equipment in real life (e.g. test drive the vehicle) to evaluate its suitability and convenience.
• Upgradability: Consider the ability to upgrade or add additional equipment later if needed.
• Durability and Warranty: Find out about the durability of the equipment and the manufacturer's warranty policy.

2. What amenities can be upgraded after purchasing the car?

Some of the amenities that can be upgraded after purchasing a vehicle include:

• Infotainment system: Can upgrade to larger screen, integrated wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
• Sound system: Replace speakers, add amplifiers and subwoofers to improve sound quality. To upgrade your sound system, you should refer to the article Notes when upgrading car audio standard & safest
• 360 degree camera: Install additional if not available on the vehicle, or upgrade to higher resolution.
• ADAS driver assistance system: Adds features such as blind spot warning and lane keeping assist.
• Wireless Charging: Install a built-in wireless charger if your vehicle doesn't already have one.
• Sunroof: Aftermarket sunroofs can be installed on some models.
• Power seat and position memory: Upgrade from mechanical seat to power seat with memory.
• Interior lighting: Add ambient lighting to enhance aesthetics.

Note that upgrading after purchasing a vehicle may affect the warranty, so consider carefully and consult with an authorized dealer before doing so.

3. What is the average cost to upgrade amenities after purchasing a car?

The cost of upgrading amenities after purchasing a car can range from 5-20% of the car's value, depending on the type of equipment.

4. How to ensure cybersecurity for connected vehicle amenities?

To ensure network security, you should:

• Update software regularly.
• Use strong passwords for linked accounts.
• Limit sharing of personal data.
• Use a VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Only install apps from trusted sources.

5. What impact do amenities have on a vehicle's energy consumption?

The impact on energy consumption is usually negligible, around 1-3% of total consumption. However, some equipment can have a greater impact:

• Air conditioning system: increase consumption by 10-20%.
• High power sound system: increase 2-5%.
• Large screens and entertainment systems: increase 1-3%.
• Seat and steering wheel heating: increase 2-4% in cold weather.

6. Which unit supplies and installs genuine and safe amenities in Ho Chi Minh City?

With many years of experience in the automobile business, Thanh Phong Auto is a unit that provides and installs genuine, professional and safe amenities in Ho Chi Minh City.

Highlights when choosing Thanh Phong Auto:

• Professional staff and engineers with many years of experience in the industry.
• Professional service process, transparent quotation, bringing satisfaction to customers.
• Committed to distributing genuine auto parts with clear warranty policy.
• Our staff always monitors the auto market situation, constantly learning and improving their skills to serve customers better and better.

Coming to Thanh Phong Auto, you can use a variety of services from supply - installation to repair, maintenance and upgrading of car amenities. For any questions, contact us immediately for service!