What Would Santa Drive?

What would Santa drive if you were creating the ultimate toy delivery vehicle, and could rely on more than reindeer power to propel it?

The scientists at GE Global Research have made it a tradition each year to showcase the latest and greatest technology developments during the holiday season. This year, they've designed a futuristic new sleigh for Old St. Nick, boasting such high-tech real-world features as a smart cruise control that can optimize Santa's travel around the globe, a wearable RFID sensor that can detect airborne chemical agents to ensure those glasses of mile left out all evening haven't spoiled, and intelligent asset tracking technology that helps the elves keep track of Santa's whereabouts as well as his gift inventory.

OnStar hopes to assist Santa on his travels by designing a special OnStar-equipped sleigh that boasts such special features as Hands-Free Calling so Santa can keep his hands on the reins and eyes on the sky, a Reindeer Health Diagnostics to stay abreast of the reindeers' hunger and energy levels, and Turn-By-Turn Navigation directions to help route him to the homes of the good little boys and girls around the world.

SaabsUnited has posted a rendering of Santa's super Saab sled: While facts on this super shiny gift delivery vehicle are remarkably absent, it looks quite a bit like the Saab Aero X concept debuted at the 2006 Geneva Motor show, only this sleigh concept boasts a twin jet propulsion system to propel Old St. Nick along his rounds.

For the second year, CAR Magazine has challenged major auto manufacturers to contribute their designs for Santa's ultimate sleigh. This week, CAR has posted some extremely cool concepts so that their collection now includes offerings from Aston Martin, Audi, Bentley, Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Nissan, Rolls-Royce, and Vauxhall. Jaguar contributed a very high-tech concept that looks more like a jet than a sleigh; it certainly looks well equipped to get Santa where he needs to go - and FAST! Audi submitted a drawing showing Santa behind the wheel of a funky little A1 getting sideways in the snow with his traditional sleigh strapped to the top roof racks.
No matter what kind of sled you're driving this holiday season, all of us at AskPatty.com wish you safe travels on your journeys!

Jody DeVere
President and CEO
http://www.askpatty.com
http://www.carblabber.com