Windscreen wipers:
They have a lot of flaws, such as the fact that they don’t clean the whole windscreen, they break very often, and they even appear like they were made in a previous era. Would it be possible to change the blade? Would it be possible to give them a more aerodynamic design? Is there a way to make them unnecessary by using glass that has been coated?
Steering Wheel:
Why, in this day and age of fly-by-wire electronics and joystick control, do we still have this big wheel and this mechanical link hanging out in front of us? It is an enormous sacrifice in terms of packing, and behind the wheel, there is a fatal steel rod that is pointed right at your skull. Why?
At least in Houston, I am aware that this is being slowed down, which always lags behind technological advancements. Before they can be certified, they need to have a direct physical connection to the steering wheels.
Additionally, I believe that customers would put up a significant struggle against it. However, when considering only the issues of weight, cost, and safety, let alone the advantages of packing, a second look is definitely warranted.
Mirrors:
A mirror was affixed to the center of the windshield, and many others were visibly protruding from the sides of the vehicle in an unsightly manner. But, in all seriousness, do we still need mirrors to do this task? When taking driving exams, we still use the term “blind spot” as if there is no way to avoid or navigate around it.
Could you just look over your shoulder for automobiles, really? What do you think about fastening a tiny camera to each side of the vehicle, so reducing its overall weight and enhancing its aerodynamics, and displaying the captured photos so that I don’t have to look all around (and outside) the vehicle to view them?
Engines:
Forget about all of the technology that goes into an automobile engine in terms of fuel economy and power; what about the architecture of the actual engine itself? Why hasn’t anybody thought of a modular engine and vehicle combination that would make it simple for the user (or the dealer) to switch it out? i.e. within around twenty minutes using just a few instruments.
It stands to reason that this would make it less difficult for automakers to construct the vehicles in the first place as well. If I am a poor student, I can buy a low-powered diesel unit that is both affordable and effective and install it.
And then, if I have more money, I can upgrade to a more potent unit in which effectiveness isn’t as much of a necessity. Your big end is sounding loud after 150k miles? Change it out with the most up-to-date, fuel-efficient, and high gas economy unit that has recently been released.