Why Aren't Dashcams a Standard Feature in Cars?

For years, many of us have wondered why dashcams, which seemed like a logical and convenient addition, haven't become a standard feature in vehicles. As with many cutting-edge technologies, there are multiple factors at play, including costs, market demand, and the evolving nature of car manufacturing. Let's explore why dashcams have yet to become a standard feature in automobiles and when they might finally see widespread adoption.

Why Dashcams Haven't Become Standard Yet

Firstly, car development and feature integration are inherently slow processes. Take, for example, the electronics that are now installed in many new vehicles. Often, these were designed several years ago, leaving little room for immediate change. According to the article, car manufacturers typically wait to see if a new feature will gain traction before incorporating it into production plans. Thus, even though dashcams have become increasingly popular in recent years, they are still not standard on most vehicles.

Another reason is the significant cost involved in incorporating new features. Car manufacturers are not only concerned with quality but also with profitability. If they wait to see that a feature is in high demand, they can then add it to their production plans, enhancing both customer satisfaction and profits. In the case of dashcams, manufacturers have been waiting for a strong market demand, which has only recently materialized.

The Current State of Dashcams in Vehicles

Most modern cars come equipped with cameras, although their quality and design may vary. The resolution of cameras in cars is often not high enough to provide the clarity needed for dashcams. Furthermore, the development of compatible storage devices and software can take years. This explains why dashcams have taken a while to become a standard feature.

However, it is important to note that dashcams are becoming more common. Currently, there are several dashcams being integrated into new car models as optional features. It is only a matter of time before they become standard on most new cars, as demand continues to rise.

Challenges and Solutions

Despite their increasing popularity, there are still challenges associated with dashcams. One major concern is that they might be subscription-based, which could make them less accessible to some consumers. However, many consumers are willing to pay for the added security and peace of mind provided by dashcams. A good system can cost around $1,000 and includes features such as real-time alerts, cloud backup, and apps for easy monitoring.

Conclusion

While dashcams have not yet become a standard feature in cars, the reasons for this are largely due to the slow pace of car development, market demand, and initial costs. However, we can expect dashcams to become more common in the near future as more people see the value in these devices. Despite concerns over subscription-based models, the benefits of dashcams, such as security, evidence gathering, and potential revenue from footage sales, make them a valuable investment for many drivers.