Computers, printers, desktops: what are cars for?
By: Drivers.com staff
Date: 2002-05-07
Installing a computer, desktop, and filing cabinet in your car may not have been a priority a year ago, but as more business travelers take to the highways, road warrior gadget sales are booming. Fears of flying related to the September 11 tragedy, coupled with lengthy delays at airports, have led many travelers to skip the plane for flights of three hours or less. According to an article in the New York Times , the switch from flying to driving is being pushed by business drivers who install wireless laptops and portable desks so they can get work done along the way. One computer-network engineer outfitted his car with mobile file storage, a portable desk, wireless laptop, and printer.
Business is booming for another sector, too, as business travelers are taking
advantage of long-distance limousine or chauffeured van services, which can
be equipped with a dazzling array of electronic office equipment. The advantages
include the ability to work during the entire door-to-door trip, and the lack
of hassle trying to hail a taxi at the destination city's airport just to get
downtown. Though there are no new studies examining the distraction dangers
of the in-car offices, one supplier of a slip-resistant desktop and hanging
file system that sits in the passenger seat reminds buyers that they should
use it "only while you're stopped or parked!" Another company, MobileDesk.com,
notes on its web site that "some of our customers have reported being cited
under a law called the 'illuminated display law.'"![]()
- Drivers.com's section on Distractions
- GoOffice.com sample in-car desktops
- MobileDesk.com sells devices for mounting laptops near drivers
- RoSPA policy on using equipment while driving, with advice for employers
- Driving safety books and videos
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