Trends Shaping the Future of Sports Cars in 2021

Despite the significant setback experienced in 2020, auto manufacturers are still projecting various new models featuring outstanding designs and technological advancement. Car enthusiasts are set to see new designs, styles, sizes, and engine performance with the latest models. Technology is fast evolving, and the new generation of car owners are leaning towards some of the more advanced models featuring some of the latest technologies in terms of safety features, fuel economy, infotainment system, and general elegance. 

One thing that is actively influencing the future of sports cars in the auto industry is the modern lifestyle. People are looking to get connected regardless of where are what they are doing. This article is focused on some of the current trends that are shaping the future of sports cars. 

Connectivity

Internet connectivity in cars is one of the guiding factors in sports cars in 20201 and beyond. Manufacturers are looking to boost internet connectivity inside these cars to communicate with other devices both inside and outside the vehicle as long as they are connected to the internet. Owning a car connected to the internet has numerous advantages to both you and other fellow road users. These include being able to start, lock and unlock your car remotely. In addition, your passengers can access a Wi-Fi network, and an inbuilt sat navigation system can help you navigate traffic hence avoiding crowded streets or traffic jams. 

Another amazing feature that is set to dominate the market is the use of tablets that are wirelessly connected to the car's Wi-Fi and your smartphone, allowing you to use your phone without shifting your attention. This has further been made accessible through voice command upgrades like Alexa to smoothen your driving experience. The internet of things is also set to dominate the automobile industry allowing cars to generate 3D maps of their surroundings, further leading to the development of self-driving vehicles. 

Autonomy

The human element on the road has been blamed for numerous accidents. This is because, as humans, you are bound to make mistakes. The desire to reduce the margin of error caused by humans has led to manufacturers developing autonomous cars. Most sports cars on the streets currently feature technology that utilizes millimeter-wave radar and cameras to provide driving assistance. However, most of this technology is significantly depends on the prevailing weather and the nature of objects to be avoided. 

To overcome these barriers, manufacturers are currently working on developing 3D LiDAR systems. These systems use laser light to map out the surroundings according to the car's inbuilt sensors. These systems are more efficient compared to cameras as they are not obstructed by objects or weather conditions. 

Eco-friendly

The modern-day generation is increasingly becoming aware of the effects of global warming as well as environmental pollution. It is because of this that manufacturers are slowly leaning towards vehicles capable of supporting alternative fuels. One of the most popular options currently is the manufacture and development of electric cars. 

Aside from causing harm to the environment, fossil fuels are increasingly causing a massive dent in the finances of car owners. However, with the development of electric vehicles, this scene is set to shift drastically. Early manufactures have witnessed various challenges when it comes to the range of car batteries. However, renowned electrical manufacturers such as Tesla have solved part of the problem by coming up with powerful batteries capable of delivering long ranges. The development of these batteries can be credited for the surge in the market for electric sports cars worldwide. 

This technology was previously theorized, but as you can see, skilled individuals have been able to bring it to life. Currently, you can find vehicles featuring both fossil fuel tanks and electric motors. This invention is set to make the car industry convenient, green, and much safer. 

Hydrogen cars

Like electric cars designed to reduce fossil fuel emissions, hydrogen-fueled sports cars are set to dominate the market. One of the key industry players, such as Hyundai, has taken a bold step with the imminent release of the Nexo. This model is probably going to be a pioneer in the field by the end of 2021. With zero emissions, the car is expected to cover more than 1000 km. Despite the setbacks witnessed in designing the technology for mass production, the company is confident it will develop a steady production line. The fuel cells used in creating these cars are arguably the cleanest globally, with the only emission being water. 

A shift from horsepower to computing power

The 2021 year will see most auto manufacturers focusing their attention on the digital aspects of their cars. This is probably the only move left for auto manufacturers looking to stay on top of their game from 2021 onwards. New players in the market have been spotting technology-led models emphasizing e-cars, connected cars, and autonomy. With more concentration on technological advancement, companies unable to keep up with the digital age may find themselves obsolete in the current market. 

Auto-makers in the coming months will be forced to hire in-house software developers to come up with their customized operating systems. They can also partner with some of the big tech companies in developing their vehicle operating system. For this purpose, most car enthusiasts see their favorite manufacturers come up with versions of the Android or IOS specifically for transport. 

Increase in subscription-based vehicle ownership

This trend has been limited to specific models such as Audi and Mercedes Benz. However, 2021 will see more sports car manufacturers adopt these subscription services. The year will see increased adoption of leases and subscriptions by car enthusiasts across the globe. This partly contributed by the move by car giants such as Porsche, Mercedes, and Audi looking to spread the service. The industry is set to witness more flexible contracts, commitments, and ease of vehicle swapping. Despite the smoothening of the processes, the downside to this move will be felt in high subscription fees.

Automakers will, in turn, be forced to come up with various business models capable of catering to multiple levels of income, come up with price-sensitive variants that are affordable to the masses. Another trend that will coincide with this move is the incorporation of used cars. This way, consumers can enjoy a wide range of options. 

Health awareness

For years, the majority of concern has been on the effect of vehicles on the environment. However, post-COVID-19, the shift may begin to focus on the health of the passengers. An increased aging population, air pollution, and rampant road accidents have shed more light on cars' health and wellness features. As a result, automakers may have to divert their attention to developing connectivity technologies to promote a clean bill of health. Some of the prominent features include alcohol detectors, air purifiers, and real-time pollution analysis.

Some of the recent models are even fitted with massage functionalities. Automakers will be forced to redesign their models to ensure every part of their vehicle can ensure the safety and health of the passengers. For this reason that 2121 will see more connected vehicles boasting of various health, wellness, and wellbeing features. 

Innovating to zero

This takes you back to the earlier concepts revolving around the development of electric and hydrogen-fuelled cars. When nearing the end of their life, most cars tend to produce waste harmful to the environment. Auto-makers have since focused their attention from carbon to neutral factories to a circular economy with reuse and recycling tendencies. This move is largely driven by the increasing need to produce sustainable and eco-friendly vehicles all across the globe. 

Innovating zero is a trend that will see more automakers come on board to work on new and innovative ways to realize zero emissions and accidents. 

Increase in personal vehicles

2021 will see increased ownership of vehicles across the world. The recent pandemic has played a significant role, especially in India, China, and parts of Europe. People are expected to buy their vehicles to minimize their exposure resulting from using public means of transport. This trend is already taking effect, with some government subsidizing the overall cost of owning a vehicle as part of the stimuli packages aimed at economic recovery. 

Increased purchase of used cars

Despite modern and advanced models being given a head start, the market will also witness a surge in used car sales. This move will largely be attributed to the increasing number of online used car retailers looking to dominate the market at a rate of about 9% annually up to 2025. This increase will, however, be for either electric or hybrid vehicles. 

The car industry is set to witness significant shifts in the coming months, with consumers looking to explore some of the modern features in new models. The year will also see new car owners taking advantage of various government subsidies.