Vacation Car Dream Features

After more than 1,500 miles in four different cars, I asked the wife and kids for features they’d like to see automakers add for future road trips. Here are their suggestions (patents pending, of course):

Voice-activated navigation/entertainment options: After getting a taste of this in the Flex, we’d definitely like to see all cars add this functionality. It’s a great way to let drivers keep their focus on the road. Of course, when drivers are trying it out for the first time they may be distracted, but they’ll get used to it. I did.

Chairs that turn into beds: Like the ones the airlines have in first and business class. It would make sleeping more comfortable when you drive overnight.

Back-to-back seats: For the older readers out there, you’ll remember this from the old station wagons we had to ride in. Of course, for space and safety reasons, they went the way of, well, the station wagon. Still, Chrysler proved with its Swivel ‘n Go seats that you can build a safe rear-facing seat. My 13-year-old daughter thinks it could help solve the legroom issue she faced in every car she rode in.

Built-in soda fountain: These would operate like the ones they have in convenience stores. Why the fountain over bottles or cans? “So you can refill,” said the 11-year-old.

Chauffeur’s wall: “Get Smart” showed how impractical the “Cone of Silence” can be, but chauffeurs have had this sound-deadening device for decades. We say add it to every family car. A distracted driver is a dangerous driver, and this could keep the distractions to a minimum. Still, there’d have to be some kind of intercom system, not to mention an “emergency” or “panic” button. I’ve got to think this one over some more.

Built-in bathroom: So many miles to drive, so many potty breaks to take. My wife, who has perhaps the smallest bladder in North America, endorsed the concept of the built-in bathroom. It would be very convenient but, as she pointed out, there may well be some serious privacy issues. Not to mention the “ick” factor.

Massaging chairs in the back: This idea got a resounding endorsement from parents, kids and friends. Yes, there are a few cars where the driver’s seat — or even the front two seats — “massage” your back. The kids argue quite loudly that they deserve the same level of comfort as the driver.

Built-in microwave: This idea started out as a “built-in grill,” but once I pointed out the dangers of hot surfaces or cooking elements inside the car, we shifted over to the microwave idea. All too often on the road you’re limited to cold chips, sandwiches or cookies. With a built-in microwave, you can have your favorite frozen burrito, refresh a cinnamon roll or cup of coffee, whatever.

Those are the best ones we’ve come up with. Add your suggestions in the comments below.

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