Mom Mobiles and the most popular Add-ons

by Madelyn Miller, the TravelLady

Moms are masters at multi-tasking: they drive the kids to soccer practice, set the doctors appointments, keep the youngest ones entertained and feed everyone afternoon snacks, all within a given day.  

Must have Safety "Add-ons" for Mom-Mobiles

Side-view and rear-view cameras help moms peek around corners at a blind intersection or see what is behind the car when backing into a parking space

Some car makers, including Mercedes, Volvo and Kia, offer technology that deters falling asleep behind the wheel. This system records a driver’s general behavior – speed and pedal pressure tendencies, for example, to create a standard of driving habits. If the driver is not operating at that level, the system estimates the driver is too tired to continue operating a vehicle and an alert sounds.

Select GM models offer OnStar, a safety feature that provides automatic crash response

Ignition breathalyzers prevent driving when under the influence of alcohol; a great resource for parents with young drivers

Innovative intuitive technologies, like Volvo’s Collision Avoidance Package, detects and alert moms when they are driving too close to another vehicle, and can even auto brake, if required.

Technology and Entertainment features
that help Moms negotiate the Drive

Apple iPod or MP3 connectivity & DVD entertainment systems with rear-seat player keep the kids entertained

GPS Navigation systems provides the most efficient route from the eye doctor to the piano teacher, with capability to avoid traffic and construction areas all while re-calibrating routes

Satellite radio offers music choices for every taste, and even kid-friendly stations

Climate control systems purify the air and eliminate airborne germs while keeping everyone happy

Bluetooth®-enabled communication offers hands-free driving for increased safety while on the road

Hands-free Microsoft’s SYNC is used exclusively on many Ford automobiles. SYNC is a speech engine that provides moms with voice control over the entertainment systems including external devices like USB and Bluetooth.

NAV and Radio systems that provide 24/7 weather and traffic forecasting

Remote start for snowy days

Last, and not least, the emergence of more hybrid cars – the selection from almost every auto maker is growing in the latest launch of 2010 models. 

With vehicle options at various price points, every family can find the right mix of luxury, design, drivability and practicality.

These suggestions come from Women-Drivers.com, the site which connects women and families to women-friendly car dealerships. 39% of the moms on Women-Drivers spending at least 1.5 – 2 hours a day taxing the children to various places. Anne Fleming, company President and Car Buying Advocate, has recommended these safety and entertainment and technical features.

Madelyn Miller is a travel and food writer who loves to test drive cars. She remembers her Mom and carpool days fondly and wishes some of these features had been available.  

Read her stories on www.carladynews.com, www.travellady.com, www.yogayaya.com, www.chocolateatlas.com, www.cocktailatlas.com, www.coffeeAtlas.com and www.TeaAtlas.com