While car buyers say new vehicle technology is a leading reason they choose one vehicle over another, there are some tech features that they would just as soon do without.

“New-vehicle prices are at an all-time high, partly as a result of an increased level of content,” said Kristin Kolodge, executive director of human machine interface at J.D. Power. “This is fine if owners are getting value for their money, but some features seem like a waste to many owners.”

According to the J.D. Power 2021 U.S. Tech Experience Index (TXI) Study, for more than one in three advanced technologies, fewer than half of owners have used the technology in the first 90 days of ownership. Non-users most often say they don’t need these technologies. For example, 61% of owners say they have never used the in-vehicle digital market technology, and 51% of those saying they have no need for it.

Owners feel similarly about the driver/passenger communication technology, with 52% saying they have never used the technology, and 40% of those saying they have no need for it.

The highest scores are for camera rear-view mirror and ground view camera, both of which are ranked among the top three by owners wanting them on their next vehicle.

Kolodge says his firm’s data shows that automakers suffer a hit to profits and sales if they build the wrong mix of features on their vehicles.

Following are several findings from the 2021 study:

The TXI Study analyzed 36 technologies, divided into four categories: convenience; emerging automation; energy and sustainability; and infotainment and connectivity.

The 2021 U.S. Tech Experience Index (TXI) Study is based on responses from 110,827 owners of new 2021 model-year vehicles who were surveyed after 90 days of ownership. The study was fielded from February through July 2021.

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You can tell the manufacturers, to put most of this new crap where the sun doesn’t shine! The only electronics I want are Cruise Control and Backup Camera!

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