• by Aaron Baar , August 1, 2012

The auto companies may be moving a bit too fast for the American public when it comes to putting connectivity into their cars. 

According to a new Harris Poll, more than three-quarters (76%) of Americans think in-car connectivity technology (including mobile devices that connect to the Internet, navigation systems, emergency response systems and driving-habit monitoring devices) is distracting and could be dangerous. More than half (55%) believe the automakers have already taken the technology too far. 

Beyond the concerns about distracted driving, nearly two-thirds of car owners had privacy concerns about the technology tracking where and how they drive. Two-fifths (41%) believed their insurance rates could go up because of what the technology reveals about their driving habits; the concerns increased among younger drivers and men.

As one might expect, the difference in attitudes about in-car connectivity falls along generational lines. Baby Boomers put a much lesser importance on connectivity (only 39% of owners 50-66 find it to be an important feature) than Millennials (58% of owners 18-35 felt it was important). In fact, among younger buyers, two-thirds (66%) said the technology available in a vehicle has some or a great deal of influence on their car choice, while only 46% of Baby Boomers feel the same way. 

“Car makers should take note; depending on the generation of their target market, in-car connectivity can have influence on the buying decision, but too much of a good thing may just be too much,” said Mike Chadsey, vice president, automotive solutions consultant for Harris Interactive, in a statement. “Ultimately, when it comes to marrying technology with their car, consumers want it to be both safe and in a way that they can control.”