Built-In Dashcams: A Growing Trend in Modern Vehicles
Built-in dashcams are becoming increasingly prevalent in the automotive industry, offering drivers an added layer of security and a reliable source of evidence in case of accidents, road rage incidents, or even vehicle theft. While the aftermarket has long been the primary source for dashcams, several automakers are now integrating this technology directly into their vehicles. This article explores the current landscape of built-in dashcams, highlighting their features, benefits, and the carmakers leading the way.
What Are Built-In Dashcams?
Unlike traditional aftermarket dashcams, built-in systems leverage the existing cameras already found on many modern vehicles. These systems, integrated via software, can record and store video, often triggered by specific events or driver input. Some manufacturers, like Toyota, allow for the integration of dealer-installed dashcams that can record and store video.
Why Aren’t Built-In Dashcams More Common?
Despite their benefits, built-in dashcams are still considered a relatively new feature. The additional cost associated with recording and storing video, even using existing camera systems, can affect a car’s overall purchase price, potentially impacting consumer acceptance.
Aftermarket dashcams continue to satisfy most current demand. However, increased consumer interest and growing pressure from insurance companies and law enforcement agencies are expected to drive the expansion of factory-integrated dashcams.
Which Cars Offer Built-In Dashcams?
The good news is that built-in dashcam technology is becoming more democratized. Car manufacturers are implementing integrated technology on a variety of models, from small sedans to large SUVs. Because demand for built-in dashcams is still growing, most carmakers have yet to embrace the technology. The following list represents some of the current offerings with factory-integrated dashcam capabilities:
Mercedes-Benz
Nearly every 2024 Mercedes-Benz model, excluding the AMG GT 4-Door Coupe, comes with built-in dashcam functionality. The system records video from the front-facing camera. To activate it, simply insert a USB stick into the appropriate port and trigger the feature in Mercedes’ MBUX operating system, which uses the USB stick to store recordings. These recordings also include time and speed data, which is useful in the event of an accident or road rage.
BMW
BMW offers its dashcam system, known as Drive Recorder, which requires a subscription to the BMW ConnectedDrive app and the optional Parking Assistant Plus or Parking Assistant Professional technology. The system can record video from the surround cameras, either automatically or manually. In the event of an incident, Drive Recorder stores 40 seconds of video: 20 seconds before and 20 seconds after the event. Drive Recorder is available on 2019-and-later BMW models with the iDrive 7.0 or later operating system, a ConnectedDrive subscription, and the optional Parking Assistant Plus package. The iX, X2, 7 Series, and 5 Series are among the 2024 models that can add Drive Recorder through the Parking Assistant Plus or Parking Assistant Professional technology.
Mini
Thanks to BMW’s relationship, Mini offers the Mini Drive Recorder, which operates similarly to the BMW version and requires the Parking Assistant Plus option and a subscription to the Mini Connected app. The redesigned 2024 Mini Cooper qualifies for Drive Recorder. Mini also sells a factory-installed Mini aftermarket stand-alone dashcam purchased through and installed by any Mini franchised dealer for non-qualifying 2024 and previous-model-year Mini vehicles
Tesla
All Tesla models, including the Cybertruck, provide built-in camera recording and storage, which can be activated by inserting a formatted USB stick. Tesla vehicles made after 2020 came standard with a preformatted USB stick. The system records video from multiple cameras and automatically captures footage during a crash or horn honk. The driver can also manually initiate recording. Drivers are also able to use Sentry Mode, which monitors movement around the vehicle even when not driving and initiates recording when triggered. All 2024 Tesla models offer video recording and storage.
Other Carmakers
Subaru’s 2024 models with EyeSight technology capture snapshots under certain conditions, such as an accident or airbag deployment. These recordings are automatic.
Toyota and Lexus offer dashcam integration on specific models, and they are prewired and can be fitted with a proprietary dashcam. You can install the dashcam in 2022-2024 Toyota model-year versions of Camry, Highlander, Prius, RAV4, RAV4 Prime, Sequoia Hybrid, Sienna Hybrid, Tacoma, Tundra, and Venza. Furthermore, the 2021 Sienna Hybrid and Venza will also accommodate the dashcam.
The Future of Built-In Dashcams
As demand increases, we can expect more carmakers to integrate built-in dashcams into their vehicles. This trend signals a move toward providing drivers with enhanced safety features and valuable evidence in various situations. As technology advances and becomes more accessible, the built-in dashcam is poised to become a standard feature in the automotive industry.
