Space Exploration and Research Revolutionized Auto Tech On Earth

Space may be the final frontier, but humanity’s efforts in up there resulted in new and advanced technology down here. Some of that technology has found its way into the automobile. Since it’s the 50th anniversary of humans first stepping foot on the moon, it may be a good time to check out some of the space-inspired tech in your car.

Nissan created an infographic highlighting some of the tech. Tires are the most important part of any car, and modern winter tires can trace some of its roots to the space program. Nokian developed winter tires in the 30s, but Goodyear’s special tires for the lunar rover needed to remain pliable at -195 degrees. Those are conditions that aren’t experienced on Earth.

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  • Mike Beranek A driver's seat that delivers a 10,000 volt shock whenever the driver makes a turn or changes lanes without signalling.
  • Wolfwagen How about some standardization of wiper controls? I have 5 different cars in my family's fleet and have driven a ton of rentals for work. Holy F*cking Sh*t Balls! Left side, right side, push the lever up to turn on, push the lever down to turn on, push the lever forward to turn on, pull the lever back to turn, slide indicator to the left to decrease intermittent wipe time, slide indicator to the right to decrease intermittent wiper time.
  • Redapple2 Someone else said it. Looks like a 4/5 size ford edge (front and back)
  • Rochester Tim, where was your head at in 1984 when it became a law to wear your seatbelt? Personally I thought it was none of the Gubmint's bizniss to force me to belt up. Today, I feel exposed and unsafe without it. My point is, give it time, both the tech and your values will evolve.
  • Theflyersfan After looking it over, Honda, I want royalties for this one: The Honda Yawn.