Mathew Palmer, a cottager and the director of corporate continuity at GM Canada, on features in new cars that are especially useful for cottagers
“I am lucky in that I get to experience all types of vehicles, and I’m constantly impressed by how quickly things have changed. There are a few features that stand out:
In-vehicle Wi-Fi
In-vehicle Wi-Fi may not seem like a big deal if you have data on your phone, but it’s faster and often has a much stronger signal, so every person in the vehicle can easily stream podcasts, movies, and music. Or you can get out your laptop and fire off that revised power point marked “final.v7,” thus clearing your mind of any work obligations before you get to the cottage.
Adaptive cruise control
Adaptive cruise control reacts to the speed of what is in front of you. Not only does this improve fuel efficiency, you can avoid turning cruise on and off. Also, there’s something undeniably fun when slower traffic gets out of your way and the vehicle accelerates back up to your chosen speed (equally helpful in keeping within the speed limits).
Cameras
Trailering has come a long way since the days of attaching aftermarket mirror extenders. Cameras can now give you a 360° view to eliminate blind spots and help you line up the hitch. There are also rear-view camera mirrors that provide a view behind your vehicle rather than a traditional mirror looking through your back window.
Power outlets
Power outlets in the trunk—you can plug in your coolers.
Auto high beams
Auto high beams are great. You don’t have to worry about forgetting to turn off your high beams.”
This information originally appeared as part of “Have Cottage, Will Travel” in our Winter ’20 issue.
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