July 10th, 2025 by bill@zoomdigital.com
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The automotive industry has come a long way over the last 70+ years. With each new decade, car tech has evolved to make driving safer, more comfortable, and more connected than ever before. From seat belts to voice-activated systems, these innovations have shaped the vehicles we drive today. Below, we highlight the most important new car features introduced in each decade, from the 1950s to the present.
1950s: Power Steering
The 1950s brought luxury and comfort to a new level with the introduction of power steering. Before this, turning a steering wheel required serious effort, especially at low speeds or while parking. Power steering made driving easier and more accessible for everyone, paving the way for smoother rides and safer handling.
1960s: Three-Point Seat Belts
Safety took center stage in the 1960s. Seat belts existed before, but Volvo’s three-point seat belt from 1959 changed the game when it became widely used in the 1960s. This simple yet life-saving feature is now standard in all passenger vehicles.
1970s: Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)
Originally developed for airplanes, ABS became available in some passenger cars in the 1970s. This system keeps the wheels from locking during hard braking, which lowers the risk of skidding and helps drivers stay in control during emergencies.
1980s: Onboard Diagnostics (OBD)
In the 1980s, cars began to include computer systems that could monitor engine performance and identify problems. The OBD system became a major milestone in car maintenance, allowing technicians to diagnose issues more efficiently and accurately.
1990s: GPS Navigation Systems
The 1990s saw the rise of in-car GPS navigation. Originally a high-end feature, it became more common by the end of the decade. For the first time, drivers could get directions as they drove without using paper maps, changing how people took road trips and got to work.
2000s: Bluetooth Connectivity
The 2000s introduced new car features that made hands-free communication possible. Bluetooth connectivity allowed drivers to sync their phones with their vehicles, reducing distractions and enhancing convenience behind the wheel.
2010s: Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS)
By the 2010s, cars started to include smart safety features like lane-keeping help, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. These systems work together to help prevent accidents and protect drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike.
2020s: Fully Digital Dashboards and Voice-Controlled Systems
Modern vehicles feature more advanced car technology than ever before. Many models now feature fully digital instrument clusters, large touchscreens, wireless charging, and voice-activated assistants that control everything from navigation to climate settings. These modern features not only boost convenience but also make driving safer and more enjoyable.
Experience Decades of Innovation in a New Ford
Auto manufacturers have built the best of auto technology—from power steering to voice-activated controls—into today’s vehicles. When you test drive a new Ford at Bull Valley Ford, you’ll experience decades of innovation brought together in one modern ride.
Explore our new inventory today or stop by our Woodstock, IL dealership to see these incredible advancements in action.
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