When the everyday discussion of cars turns to automotive safety, it seems that even your best friends don white laboratory coats and become experts. I guess that should be expected these days, where every single thing is in the news and vehicle sales are being promoted with almost a vengeance. Competition is fierce and the trend of manufacturing jobs going overseas to Asia and South America is staggering.

Meanwhile, the field of automobile safety is happy and healthy. Even our testing specialties are now micro-managed and numerous testing facilities exist to provide services in the realm of public and consumer safety. With regard to new cars, the European New Car Assessment Programme (EuroNCAP) is also alive and well. Through a system of testing and reporting, several improvements have been made in automobiles and automobile safety continues to gain the spotlight in media coverage across Europe, the United Kingdom and America.

When we turn our attention to the executive car and issues of safety and corporate trends, we are pleasantly surprised to find that most modern safety features are included in the typical executive car. Perhaps it is self serving, because executive cars are given a higher comfort package with add-ons and optional accessories as standard. Nonetheless, moves like this create a precedent and an industry standard; that's potentially a great step in promoting enhanced automobile safety for every vehicle.

What's to be considered in car safety? Of course, we'll start with a safe and road worthy wheels, tyres and chassis. That comfortable ride comes only after years of engineering experimentation have hammered out the major glitches. Remote starting, simple keying and entry, lights that sense your presence - vehicle security extends from vehicle interior to home and office these days. Proper handling means the advances in steering and anti-lock braking are utilised. Pivotal lighting and light sensitive windows, coupled with visual aids and computerised distance backup assistance make the drive safer.

Now add reinforced steel bumpers and door panels, air bag technology and GPS or NAVSAT for on the go mapping and directions. Your executive car is almost ready. Today's weather is a pleasant 20 degrees, coffee's on, cell phone's charged and today's movie is "Terminator IV" (just kidding here). Governor Schwarzenegger has been a little busy out in California lately.

Driver error continues to be the main cause of accidents. Many corporations provide driver refresher courses and even strategic and defensive driving for certain personnel. Professional drivers can and do get even more training. Advancements are expected to continue as electronic components and chips get smaller and more complex. Perhaps it won't be long before the executive car can drive itself.