ELECTRIC vehicles are in line for a major change but the RAC has raised a huge “safety” concern.
Owners of EVs could soon be targeted with adverts while they are behind the wheel.
Some of the biggest car manufacturers have inked deals with the German start-up company 4screen.
While there is no set date for this to start, adverts are expected to come sooner rather than later.
4screen boss Fabian Beste said that the tool will be designed to detect a problem, such as low fuel or a low battery and then this will trigger adverts for nearby options, giving the driver details about amenities in their local area in just a few seconds.
This could include refuelling points or parking spaces.
While the RAC said the tool could be helpful for motorists to access “genuinely useful information” it did also issue a warning.
The RAC’s Steve Gooding said the new technology could be a serious distraction to drivers.
He said: “There is a case for alerting drivers to genuinely useful information if their screen is already displaying a map, such as the location of service stations, but unless and until the car is driving itself the principle should be fewer distractions, not more.”
Motorists will get two notifications if their car is thought to be running low on battery, according to 4screen.
It will then scan for EV charging stations in a 10km radius of the car’s current location.
4Screen said: “Charging stations can prompt drivers when their EV battery is low, offering convenient recharging spots.
“These prompts can include special offers or promotions, enhancing the charging experience.”
A notification for service stations will also be triggered if the system notes the vehicle has been travelling for two hours without stopping.
4Screen also added: “When a driver parks nearby, quick-service restaurants can use the Destination Arrival prompt to offer incentives like discounts or parking sponsorships, encouraging them to visit for a meal or snack.”
