If a Hummer’s...
If a Hummer’s not tough enough, check out this mean-looking off-roader! The eight-tonne bruiser is a British-built prototype which could eventually see action as the replacement for the US Army’s legendary HUMVEE military vehicle.
The hi-tech plipper...
The hi-tech plipper is called the AviStart 4400, and the í‚á£350 system is produced by Californian company Directed Electronics. Motorists can remotely start their car at the touch of a button, as well as setting the desired interior temperature.
The LCD screen keeps owners up to date with the status of the vehicle, making the device the only two-way remote currently on the market. It also features a parking meter countdown clock, as well as security features which alert you if someone is tampering with your car. Shaun Findley, UK technical director, explained: "The system is very secure when on remote start-up because the doors remain locked. If someone was to break in and try to drive the vehicle away, the engine would cut out and the alarm would sound. That"s because they still need the key inserted to drive."
A similar device in the US recently scooped a top innovation award, and has proved incredibly popular. But a British version took time to be developed because the American gadget didn"t meet telecoms laws. UK users face more legal problems, though, as police have charged several drivers in the past for not being in control of their car when they left it warming up on a public road.