Vehicle technology is becoming increasing sophisticated, and most cars can already detect when there is some type of problem with the engine or powertrain. So, what about detecting an issue with the driver?

Ford has been doing extensive research in that area, and recently unveiled a new driver's seat that will be able to detect a passenger's heart function. Through the use of six small sensors, the seat is able to detect electrical pulses from the heart without touching the skin.

The seat can then pass that information on to the car's computer system, which can take appropriate action. For example, if signs of a heart attack are present, the car may automatically disable and notify a local medical center before any damage is done.

"As always in medicine, the earlier a condition is detected, the easier it is to treat, and this technology even has the potential to be instrumental in diagnosing conditions drivers were previously unaware they had," said Dr. Achim Lindner, a medical officer at the Ford research center.

It is widely believed that former professional wrestler "Macho Man" Randy Savage recently died as a result of a heart attack which led to an accident, exactly the kind of situation that Ford is looking to prevent through this new technology.