General Motors latest tech addition aims to keep drivers hands where they belong. On the wheel.
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It was just the other day when we talked about the Chevy Malibu being 50 years old, and yet it looks like this old dog is still learning new tricks. Or at least the 2014 Chevy Malibu has learned a new trick.
Now texting and driving has become a serious problem on the roads these days. Testing has shown the loss of spacial awareness from being nose deep in your mobile device significantly impairs individuals ability to react, or stop, in a crisis situation. Yet if you spend much time on the road at all lately, you’ve probably encountered at least one person nose down, phone up, as they cruise along.
Chevrolet however thinks they have something that can at least help with the problem of where everyone’s hands are. They’ve taught the Chevrolet MyLink system for the 2014 Malibu the ability to read back to you your text messages as you drive.
The new Text-to-Voice feature for smartphone users enables voice-controlled connectivity, while iPhone users will get the additional support of Siri. Chevy explains the system thusly.
Text-to-Voice converts incoming messages to speech, reads them over the audio system speakers and allows the driver to reply with preset messages such as, “I’m driving and will contact you later.” Users can create and save their own preset messages when the vehicle is in Park. The feature requires a compatible smartphone with Bluetooth profile and applicable text messaging features.
While infinitely helpful, drivers should be aware that such a voice read system is not a cure all. If you find yourself deep in thought considering how you want to reply to the message, drivers may still find themselves to distracted to drive effectively. Also constantly glancing at the digital display to see if the electronic assistant is recording you correctly can also be highly distracting. For long messages, you are still likely best served pulling over and composing your response even if you use the hands free system.
Still , the MyLink system could potentially be a lifesaver. Keeping peoples eyes on the road instead of looking down to text ‘be home in 15min’. If you find yourself firing off multiple short messages, then a Malibu which starts at $22,965 might be worth considering. It’s certainly better then the alternative should you find yourself looking down for to long.
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