Your car is an extension of you. Pad it up with these gadgets and you're sure to get more out of your drives even as you stay safe and arrive in style.
GPS
A good GPS system doesn't just give directions to your destination, it also allows for route customisation and has music, video and games built in to compete with GPS-equipped cellphones. MapMyIndia and Garmin offer the most comprehensive GPS devices and maps for India.
TIRE REPAIR KIT
While roadside assistance services are available, they can take upto an hour to arrive. And if you're on a highway, you're on your own. Fixing a flat takes all of 15 minutes. Keep a Tire repair kit in your boot at all times. Branded and generic kits are available at most car shops.
ADVANCED CAR SECURITY
Gear & remote locks are easily defeated and now passe. The latest security features include engine immobilisers, remote engine starters, keyless entry fobs and GPS car trackers. Autocop, Micro VBB, Xenos & Viper are popular brands with a range of products on offer.
PARKING SENSORS
You hate it when your car gets dents and scrapes. Parking assistance will at least make sure you're not to blame. Most systems use ultrasonic beams to judge distance to an obstacle. Some even pack in rear-view cameras for more control. Magik-i and Xenos make decent parking sensors.
BLUETOOTH SPEAKER SET
If you're on the phone while driving, you're not just breaking the law, you're endangering lives. Bluetooth car speakers are a wise investment. New systems have voice dialling, noise-cancelling technology and can simultaneously connect to multiple phones. Jabra, Plantronics & Motorola are well-known manufacturers for bluetooth kits.
