Technology taking over our cars

MERCER, Pa.-- In the last decade, the auto industry has seen a dramatic increase in the amount of technology in vehicles.  Whether for safety, performance, or entertainment purposes, modern cars carry a plethora of high-tech items. WCN investigated some of these features and what kind of buyers look for them.

Westminster senior Sara Eliser recently leased a new Nissan.  Even though she got one of the cheaper models, the car has plenty of standard features.  She told me she considers any technology in the car an added bonus, as she's just happy to have something that runs and drives.  The Nissan replaced her failing 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse.

After speaking with the folks at Bill McCandless Ford in Mercer, I found more than just college students want cars with tech options.  Sales manager Eric Baptiste told me he sees plenty of adults of all ages who like the features.  Vehicle Sales Specialist George Mullet explained some parents like the safety controls they can implement on their teenage drivers, like speed and radio volume limiters.

While the public associates brands like Apple and Motorola with the forefront of technology, they may have to make room for names like Ford and Nissan, too.