Comfort on the move/comfort on wheels

Lead in: Advanced audio-video systems, leather seats that recline 165 degrees, extra boot space, the sky is the limit when it comes to making your journey comfortable. Read on to find out more about customised car accessories.

A car shorn of accessories is like an apartment without furniture - empty, unappealing and uncomforting. Customised accessories lend an individualistic touch to your automobile, making it 'your' car in every way. Considering the increasing number of hours you drive daily, splurging on accessories that make your journey comfortable may not be a bad idea after all. Many add-on accessories also make the car safe and improve the aesthetics of the car's interiors.

Some accessories which add comfort and style to your hot wheels:

Audio/ video systems
A car stereo system is one of the most sought-after accessories today. The pleasure of listening to your favourite music while driving can transform a dreary trip into an exciting one. To add to the base music version, which comes bundled with the car model, different types of enhancers for specific car models are also available in the market to heighten your musical experience. Accessories like woofers, tweeters, sub-woofers, amplifiers and LCD screens provide high quality sound and resolution. Most of the new high-end cars being launched today come equipped with advanced audio systems.

Seats and covers
The car's original seats can be converted into highly comfortable ones with adjustable seats, high backrests, integrated head and armrests. Comfort can be combined with safety too. For example, if you are travelling with a baby, booster seats can be propped on the passenger seats. Accessories like car cushions enable you to add a dash of colour to your car's interiors besides making your journey comfortable. Based on your car's model, seat covers can also be customised for added comfort. From leather, sheep skin, vinyl, canvas, tweed to acrylic fur, car seat covers are available in a range of materials today. Most newly launched high-end cars are equipped with comfortable seat covers.

Lighting
Lights within the interiors and headlights with long beams provide a clearer view of the road ahead. Advanced fog or neon light accessories make driving on unlit roads less challenging. To get the best deal, compare prices quoted by various vendors before making your purchase.

Cool gadgets
High-tech devices like GPS navigation systems can help you find your destination with ease. You can also install a tracking system, which will enable you to monitor your car's movements at all times. Security devices like immobilisers or car alarms can protect your automobile from theft or burglary, providing you peace of mind. Remember to do some comparison shopping as such car gadgets can be quite expensive.

Additional accessories
Car utility accessories like perfumes and air fresheners can help you get rid of musty car odours. If you have a penchant for orderliness, CD or paper organisers can help you keep your car's interiors clutter-free.

All, or most, of the accessories and gizmos mentioned above are available at automotive manufacturers, dealers or automobile boutiques. Such modifications and additions not only make your car comfortable, but in some cases also make it a safer vehicle.