The desire for a little more simplicity
01/01/2014
Sometimes you really wonder whether we need all the features that are offered in new cars. Isn't it enough if a driver's seat can be moved mechanically in two planes? Do we really need 56 servomotors to get the seat plus steering wheel into the desired position? In addition, of course, there are 6 ventilation motors and 14 pneumatic massage cells per seat. In total, the current Mercedes S-Class promises 100 electric motors for more comfort. The electric motor manufacturer is of course delighted, but is this really necessary, even in the S-Class?
I own 2 cars with no seat adjustment at all, which of course means the other extreme. Even luxury cars of the past were relatively easy to operate and didn't weigh 1.5 tons despite their expansive dimensions like the 1951 Kaiser Deluxe, whose dashboard is pictured above.
However, the many electric motors are not enough, the luxury-related upgrades in the vehicle practically run right through the car. No longer content with great xenon light, 56 LEDs per headlight, 35 per rear light and an additional 4 for the rear fog light are installed. The interior needs a further 300, which equates to a total of 500 LEDs per vehicle, give or take.
My cars make do with full and dipped headlights, not to mention fog lights, and in the interior I'm already happy if I can see the rev counter.
Even with xenon lights, a normal replacement costs several hundred euros/francs. In some cases, the front even has to be dismantled to get anywhere near the light, which can then immediately cost another hundred euros/francs. I can remove the broken bulb from my cars myself and fit a new one. Cost and effort: a new bulb for a few francs/euros plus 10 minutes of work and two dirty hands!
Yes, I am aware that two or three remote controls for the monitor, set-top box and sound system are needed to start a television set these days. And, of course, every camera today can film, a cell phone can take photos or play music. It makes you wonder why our cars can't fly and dive.
I have completely lost hope that today's cars could become usable classic cars. As soon as something stops working, all garages, mechanics and even super tinkerers will be stranded. Maybe that will be the next topic for the super talent TV shows, e.g. Germany is looking for the best classic car mechanic ....
