Autoblog

Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Translogic finishes CES by going solo]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/translogic-finishes-ces-by-going-solo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/translogic-finishes-ces-by-going-solo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/translogic-finishes-ces-by-going-solo/#commentsFiled under: Technology

Translogic at CES, part 2

Our sister site Translogic follows up on its Consumer Electronics Show coverage with a new episode this week. This one is a smorgasbord of automotive tech, including a spin on the Solowheel, a mobility device that's sort of like half a Segway.

The Translogic crew also talks to the chief technology officer at Panasonic, who draws some interesting comparisons between electric cars and refrigerators. Audi shows off a new gesture-based, heads-up display. Kia announces a new version of its UVO telematics system and shows it off in some concepts.

Click past the jump to watch the whole episode.

Continue reading Translogic finishes CES by going solo

Translogic finishes CES by going solo originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aol autosaudicesces 2012consumer electronics showkiapanasonicsolowheeltranslogicuvoThu, 02 Feb 2012 18:29:00 EST

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20160987/article-comments.xml

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/02/translogic-finishes-ces-by-going-solo/20160987/article-detail.xml

20160987 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/translogic-ces-2-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/translogic-ces-2-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Translogic hangs out with Daimler's Zetsche and Ford's Mulally at CES]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/28/translogic-hangs-out-with-daimlers-zetsche-and-fords-mulally-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/28/translogic-hangs-out-with-daimlers-zetsche-and-fords-mulally-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/28/translogic-hangs-out-with-daimlers-zetsche-and-fords-mulally-a/#commentsFiled under: CES, Technology, Videos, Ford, Mercedes-Benz, Infotainment

Translogic at CES

Usually our sister publication Translogic is out putting futuristic transportation hardware through the paces or talking to geeks who are trying to reimagine the very infrastructure of our world. But this week, the show has a decidedly more conventional subject: Interviews with Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche and Ford CEO Alan Mulally.

Both of these automotive bigwigs were wandering the halls of the Consumer Electronics Show earlier this month (Zetsche was the keynote speaker, a job Mulally performed two years ago), which is where Translogic caught up with them for a chat and demonstration of their CES wares. Zetsche showed off a new gesture-based in-car interface, as well as some new active safety technology for Mercedes-Benz. Mulally plugged Ford's new hybrid and plug-in hybrid Fusion, as well as showing off the Ford Evos concept's fancy infotainment system. Give it a watch after the jump.

Continue reading Translogic hangs out with Daimler's Zetsche and Ford's Mulally at CES

Translogic hangs out with Daimler's Zetsche and Ford's Mulally at CES originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 28 Jan 2012 14:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alan mulallycesces 2012consumer electronics showdaimlerdieter zetschefordinfotainmentmercedes-benzmulallytelematicstranslogicvideoSat, 28 Jan 2012 14:04:00 EST

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20156559/article-comments.xml

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/28/translogic-hangs-out-with-daimlers-zetsche-and-fords-mulally-a/20156559/article-detail.xml

20156559 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/translogic-ceo-interviews-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/translogic-ceo-interviews-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Sync Applink gets new NPR app, Destinations hands-on]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/sync-applink-gets-new-npr-app-destinations-hands-on/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/sync-applink-gets-new-npr-app-destinations-hands-on/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/sync-applink-gets-new-npr-app-destinations-hands-on/#commentsFiled under: CES, Etc., Technology, Ford, Infotainment

Ford Applink

Our friends at Engadget got up close and cozy with the new Ford Sync Applink interface at CES 2012. Ford has put plenty of time ironing out some of the wrinkles in the voice-command system, and the company's work has paid off. Sync Applink is designed to allow users to access certain applications on their compatible smartphones without ever having to take their hands from the wheel. It sounds nice in theory, but Ford has had its fair share of issues getting the technology to produce desired results. Judging by the quick video, that's a thing of the past.

Ford demonstrated how the revised system easily pulls up the new NPR app and how users can easily shuffle through the application's various features. The app even lets users chose any NPR station in the country. How's that for snazzy?

Click past the jump to see Applink do its thing.

Continue reading Sync Applink gets new NPR app, Destinations hands-on

Sync Applink gets new NPR app, Destinations hands-on originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applinkcesces 2012fordford applinksyncsync applinkFri, 20 Jan 2012 08:33:00 EST

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20151207/article-comments.xml

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/20/sync-applink-gets-new-npr-app-destinations-hands-on/20151207/article-detail.xml

20151207 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/ford-applink-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/ford-applink-628.jpg <![CDATA[Android integration comes to your car's mirror [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/android-integration-comes-to-your-cars-mirror-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/android-integration-comes-to-your-cars-mirror-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/android-integration-comes-to-your-cars-mirror-w-video/#commentsFiled under: Etc., Technology, Infotainment

Android rear-view mirror

Just when you thought manufacturers couldn't cram any more technology into a vehicle, CES rolls through Las Vegas to show off all-new levels of car-bound gadgetry. A company by the name of Rydeen hopes to produce a new range of stereo head units that run the Android operating system. The double-DIN units partner up with a touch-screen enabled rear-view mirror serve up all of the relevant applications we've come to know and love from our Android devices. Currently, Rydeen says it's just using the touchscreen rear-view mirrors as research tools, though a production version may hit the market by 2013.

That version will likely boast a more simple interface that should be easier for drivers to use without killing everyone else on the road. We're big fans of that plan, though we have to wonder about the viability of putting the touch screen in the rear-view mirror to begin with. Here's hoping Rydeen will turn to a traditional dash-mounted system in the future. Hit the jump to check out a video of the mirror for yourself.

Continue reading Android integration comes to your car's mirror [w/video]

Android integration comes to your car's mirror [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Jan 2012 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid rear view mirrorcesces 2012las vegasrear view mirrorrydeentechThu, 19 Jan 2012 10:58:00 EST

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20150506/article-comments.xml

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/19/android-integration-comes-to-your-cars-mirror-w-video/20150506/article-detail.xml

20150506 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/android-mirror-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/android-mirror-628.jpg <![CDATA[Aha Radio coming to 2013 Subaru BRZ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/18/aha-radio-coming-to-2013-subaru-brz/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/18/aha-radio-coming-to-2013-subaru-brz/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/18/aha-radio-coming-to-2013-subaru-brz/#commentsFiled under: Coupe, Performance, CES, Etc., Technology, Videos, Subaru, Infotainment

Aha Radio in the Subaru BRZ

Subaru and Honda have shacked up with Aha Radio to bring streaming Internet tunes to your vehicle's cabin. According to Engadget, the system is expected to show up as an option on the 2013 Subaru BRZ. Users will need to have the Aha Radio app installed on their iOS or Android smartphone. The system then uses the device's data connection to stream the application straight into the head unit via Bluetooth or a USB connection. Information like pre-selected favorites and station preferences will be displayed and accessible via the built-in touchscreen interface.

Drivers will also be able to command the app using steering-wheel mounted controls, which is always a plus. Engadget says the user interface is workable enough for daily life. The site was able to get a brief data connection while on the floor at CES - just long enough to flip though a few stations and make a quick video. Hit the jump to check it out for yourself.

Continue reading Aha Radio coming to 2013 Subaru BRZ

Aha Radio coming to 2013 Subaru BRZ originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Jan 2012 18:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 subaru brzahaaha radiobrzcesces 2012connectivityinfotainmentinternet radiostreaming internet radiosubarusubaru brzvideoWed, 18 Jan 2012 18:41:00 EST

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20151058/article-comments.xml

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/18/aha-radio-coming-to-2013-subaru-brz/20151058/article-detail.xml

20151058 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/aha-radio-subaru-brz-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/aha-radio-subaru-brz-628.jpg <![CDATA[We can't show you the most impressive infotainment system at CES]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/we-cant-show-you-the-most-impressive-infotainment-system-at-ces/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/we-cant-show-you-the-most-impressive-infotainment-system-at-ces/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/we-cant-show-you-the-most-impressive-infotainment-system-at-ces/#commentsFiled under: Concept Cars, CES, Technology, Infotainment

The only thing we can show you is the image above. No video, no additional pics, just that.

Tucked away in the way-way-back of the South Hall at CES is Garmin's private meeting room. One section holds the company's current automotive, nautical and aviation systems, while the other is an exhibition of the future.

We sampled Garmin's new "Everest" setup, which includes one-shot voice commands and the ability to buy tracks from Amazon while you're listening to them over FM radio. You'll see it in cars later this year. We also sampled their "In2it" eight-way rotary controller (think a tech'd-out iDrive, MMI or COMAND knob), complete with proximity sensors and configurable buttons. Garmin is pitching it to OEMs right now.

But the system that blew our mind is dubbed K2. And the only thing we can show you is the image above. No video, no additional pics, just that.

Continue reading We can't show you the most impressive infotainment system at CES

We can't show you the most impressive infotainment system at CES originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2012garmingarmin k2k2Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:30:00 EST

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20148689/article-comments.xml

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/17/we-cant-show-you-the-most-impressive-infotainment-system-at-ces/20148689/article-detail.xml

20148689 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/garmin-k2-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/garmin-k2-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes boss Zetsche offends Cubans with Che Guevara joke]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/mercedes-boss-zetsche-offends-cubans-with-che-guevara-joke/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/mercedes-boss-zetsche-offends-cubans-with-che-guevara-joke/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/mercedes-boss-zetsche-offends-cubans-with-che-guevara-joke/#commentsFiled under: CES, Etc., Marketing/Advertising, Mercedes-Benz

For every college student with a Che Guevara poster on their dorm room walls and a copy of Motorcycle Diaries on their shelves, there are plenty of Americans who remember the communist leader as a cold-blooded killer. That's the problem with revolutionaries; they're nothing if not divisive. Mercedes-Benz recently received a first-hand lesson in just how polarizing Guevara himself can be after the company used a massive image of the leader in the company's presentation on car sharing at CES.

Dieter Zetsche, Daimler CEO, said, "Some colleagues still think that car-sharing borders on communism, but if this is a revolution, then 'Viva la revolucion!'."

The Guevara image then splayed across the one-story screen behind the executive, complete with a Mercedes-Benz three-pointed star on his trademark beret. Let the cringing begin.

It didn't take long for Cuban exiles in Florida to descend on the Mercedes-Benz consumer site with promises of boycotts and shock at the company's insensitivity. It does seem amazingly short-sighted for a German luxury manufacturer to embrace the image of a leader who happily shunned the niceties of the upper class for a rifle.

Mercedes boss Zetsche offends Cubans with Che Guevara joke originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2012che guevaraconsumer electronics showdaimlerdieter zetscheguevaramercedes-benzviva la revolucionzetscheTue, 17 Jan 2012 09:57:00 EST

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20150079/article-comments.xml

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/17/mercedes-boss-zetsche-offends-cubans-with-che-guevara-joke/20150079/article-detail.xml

20150079 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/che-at-ces-628-1326808292_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/che-at-ces-628-1326808292.jpg <![CDATA[Gracenote MoodGrid could be in cars by year's end]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/16/gracenote-moodgrid-could-be-in-cars-by-years-end/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/16/gracenote-moodgrid-could-be-in-cars-by-years-end/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/16/gracenote-moodgrid-could-be-in-cars-by-years-end/#commentsFiled under: CES, Technology, Videos, Infotainment

Gracenote MoodGrid

Last year at IFA, we had a chance to check out a beta version of Gracenote's MoodGrid, an Android tablet app that automatically creates a music playlist using a 10x10 grid with Positive, Energentic, Calm and Dark criteria placed on each axis. Select a place on the graph and it automatically creates a playlist based on your mood. Now, the app has been scaled down and ported into a Garmin head unit, which means MoodGrid could be coming to a major OEM as soon as sometime this year.

As shown at CES, the updated MoodGrid app has been halved, with a five-by-five display with the same four musical dispositions. Based on where you place the dot, it dials up the tunes to suit your mood, utilizing the tracks on your iPhone, iPod or Android device. Another tablet-based version was on hand that can also tap into subscription music services like Spotify, Rdio and MOG, making music discovery even more robust. Check out our brief hands-on video after the break.

Continue reading Gracenote MoodGrid could be in cars by year's end

Gracenote MoodGrid could be in cars by year's end originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidcesces 2012garmingracenotegracenote moodgridifainfotainmentinternationale funkausstellung berlinmoodgridvideoMon, 16 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20148671/article-comments.xml

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/16/gracenote-moodgrid-could-be-in-cars-by-years-end/20148671/article-detail.xml

20148671 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/moodgrid-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/moodgrid-628.jpg <![CDATA[Audi accidentally(?) previews 2013 A3 design at CES]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/audi-accidentally-previews-2013-a3-design-at-ces/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/audi-accidentally-previews-2013-a3-design-at-ces/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/audi-accidentally-previews-2013-a3-design-at-ces/#commentsFiled under: Europe, Hatchback, Audi, Design/Style

.

Audi may have accidentally let slip the exterior design of its upcoming 2013 A3.The German automaker set about showing off the hatchback's cabin with a static display at Las Vegas' CES ahead of the vehicle's expected unveiling at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The display gives the world a sense of what to expect from the luxury compact's front seats, center console and dash, which features a stand-alone LCD display that rises out from above the instrument panel's center air vents. Like other Audi displays, the screen features various vehicle menus, including two that show off the full exterior of the three-door model.

Judging from these two quick glimpses at the hatchback, the three-door will feature a new, more aggressive face. From the looks of things, buyers can expect to continue to find a large, signature Audi single-frame grille flanked by more purposeful headlights and sporty air intakes set low int he front fascia. Head over to Audiboost.com for a closer look at the vehicle inside and out. Don't get too attached to what you see, however. Past reports have suggested the vehicle will only debut as a sedan here in the States.

Audi accidentally(?) previews 2013 A3 design at CES originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 audi a3a3audiaudi a3audi mmicesces 2012consumer electronics showmmiFri, 13 Jan 2012 14:02:00 EST

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20148093/article-comments.xml

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/13/audi-accidentally-previews-2013-a3-design-at-ces/20148093/article-detail.xml

20148093 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/audi-a3-exterior-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/audi-a3-exterior-628.jpg <![CDATA[QNX guts a Porsche 911 to show off next-gen infotainment]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/qnx-guts-a-porsche-911-to-show-off-next-gen-infotainment/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/qnx-guts-a-porsche-911-to-show-off-next-gen-infotainment/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/qnx-guts-a-porsche-911-to-show-off-next-gen-infotainment/#commentsFiled under: CES, Technology, Infotainment

QNX - now owned by Blackberry - ripped the guts out of a 997 Porsche 911 Cabrio to showcase its latest blend of infotainment, navigation and connectivity solutions. If nothing else, it's one of the better looking interfaces we found at CES.

The system integrates the standard music, nav and telephony functionality with one-touch Bluetooth pairing over NFC, a sweet-sounding VOIP system and the potential - in theory, at least - to run Android apps thanks to its Blackberry Playbook roots. Get a feel for it in the video after the break.

Continue reading QNX guts a Porsche 911 to show off next-gen infotainment

QNX guts a Porsche 911 to show off next-gen infotainment originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2012qnxThu, 12 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20146696/article-comments.xml

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/12/qnx-guts-a-porsche-911-to-show-off-next-gen-infotainment/20146696/article-detail.xml

20146696 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/inside-device-control-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/inside-device-control-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz DICE concept brings gesture controls to the cockpit [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/mercedes-benz-dice-concept-brings-gesture-controls-to-the-cockpi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/mercedes-benz-dice-concept-brings-gesture-controls-to-the-cockpi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/mercedes-benz-dice-concept-brings-gesture-controls-to-the-cockpi/#commentsFiled under: Concept Cars, CES, Technology, Videos, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury, Infotainment

Not to be outdone by its competitors from Ingolstadt, Mercedes-Benz brought out its own vision of the future of interiors, complete with augmented reality, a fully customizable dashboard and gesture-based controls. There's not a knob or button to be found...

The video after the jump demonstrates the Dynamic & Intuitive Control Experience (DICE) far better than words can convey, but the basic elements are these: a series of proximity sensors detect hand motions across the interior, allowing you to scroll, select and control a variety of functions. The highlights include the ability to get information about the businesses and sights around you, connect with friends nearby and control all the standard music and navigation functionality you'd expect in a high-end ride. But it's not without its issues.

The major problem is there's no way for the system to detect if you're motioning or just have your hand out, and making matters worse is the poor definition of exactly where your hands and arms should be to take control of specific elements. But Mercedes has time to work out the kinks - one exec admitted that a production version is at least 20 years out.

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz DICE concept brings gesture controls to the cockpit [w/video]

Mercedes-Benz DICE concept brings gesture controls to the cockpit [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2012diceDynamic Intuitive Control ExperiencemercedesMercedes Benzmercedes-benzvideoThu, 12 Jan 2012 17:01:00 EST

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20146705/article-comments.xml

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/12/mercedes-benz-dice-concept-brings-gesture-controls-to-the-cockpi/20146705/article-detail.xml

20146705 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/mb-dice-628-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/mb-dice-628-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Audi shows off gesture-controlled heads-up display]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/audi-shows-off-gesture-controlled-heads-up-display/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/audi-shows-off-gesture-controlled-heads-up-display/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/audi-shows-off-gesture-controlled-heads-up-display/#commentsFiled under: CES, Safety, Technology, Videos, Audi, Luxury, Infotainment

Across the Audi stand from the new A3's interior and updated Audi Connect system was a prototype of the next-next-generation of heads-up display technology.

The display comes in three parts: one in front of the driver, another in front of the passenger and yet another sitting between the two, viewable by both people in the front seats.

While the addition of two more displays is more novel than functional, the way you can pass information between them makes it noteworthy. If the passenger, say, looks up a restaurant on their display, they can push navigation instructions to the center display and on to the driver. It's a slick setup, but likely won't come to market for at least a few more years. Get the full details and a brief demo video below the fold.

Continue reading Audi shows off gesture-controlled heads-up display

Audi shows off gesture-controlled heads-up display originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi hudcesces 2012heads up displaytechnologyvideoThu, 12 Jan 2012 15:31:00 EST

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20146699/article-comments.xml

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/12/audi-shows-off-gesture-controlled-heads-up-display/20146699/article-detail.xml

20146699 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/img3553-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/img3553-628.jpg <![CDATA[Hands-on with Kia UVO2]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/hands-on-with-kia-uvo2/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/hands-on-with-kia-uvo2/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/hands-on-with-kia-uvo2/#commentsFiled under: CES, Technology, Videos, Kia, Infotainment

Kia UVO2

Kia is rolling out the second generation of its UVO infotainment system before we could really get to know the original, but UVO2 is packing all the advanced telematics and connectivity features of its competitors - or at least it will when it ships later this year.

We had a chance to sample the lower-spec version of UVO2 in an Optima Hybrid, and overall, it's an improvement over its predecessor both in terms of polish and features.

Included in UVO2 is automatic crash notification, road-side assistance, service reminders and tracking, along with geo-fencing, speed warnings and a curfew setting that lets you know when the kiddies stray too far, go too fast or stay out late.

Along with the normal raft of music and navigation features, there's a companion iPhone app that keeps track of maintenance and notifications. It also includes a vehicle finder that automatically logs the vehicle's last location and lets you find it using a nifty augmented reality feature. Get more details in the press blast and hands-on video after the jump.

Continue reading Hands-on with Kia UVO2

Hands-on with Kia UVO2 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2012kiakia uvo2uvouvo 2uvo2Thu, 12 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20146695/article-comments.xml

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/12/hands-on-with-kia-uvo2/20146695/article-detail.xml

20146695 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/kia-uvo-2-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/kia-uvo-2-628.jpg <![CDATA[Next Audi flagship will drive autonomously in traffic jams]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/next-audi-flagship-will-drive-autonomously-in-traffic-jams/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/next-audi-flagship-will-drive-autonomously-in-traffic-jams/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/next-audi-flagship-will-drive-autonomously-in-traffic-jams/#commentsFiled under: CES, Safety, Technology, Audi, Luxury

Audi had plenty to announce at CES, including the debut of its new Audi Connect system and Touchpad-integrated MMI knob, modular entertainment platform, NVIDIA Tegra 3 chipset and its planned expansion of both infotainment and active safety systems.

On the safety front, Audi execs announced plans to introduce a new system dubbed Traffic Jam Assistant, which recognizes when a driver is stuck in start-and-stop traffic and can be switched into an autonomous mode that takes complete control of the steering, acceleration and brakes.

The system uses the front-mounted adaptive cruise control sensors combined with wide-angle video cameras to detect lane markings, other vehicles, barriers and pedestrians, and can control the vehicle without any driver intervention up to 37 mph. Eight ultrasonic sensors also keep tabs on what's in front of and at the sides of the vehicle, with the front sensors not only tracking the vehicle ahead, but - like Nissan's latest Predictive Forward Collision Warning System - several vehicles ahead.

If this all sounds familiar, it should. And so should the name. Mercedes-Benz has been working on a similar system called Traffic Jam Assist, which we sampled in an S-Class last year.

Like Mercedes' system, Audi's implementation should make it to market sometime next year, likely in its refreshed range-topping A8.

Next Audi flagship will drive autonomously in traffic jams originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a8audiaudi a8audi traffic jam assistantcesces 2012traffic jam assistantThu, 12 Jan 2012 12:31:00 EST

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20146687/article-comments.xml

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/12/next-audi-flagship-will-drive-autonomously-in-traffic-jams/20146687/article-detail.xml

20146687 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/audi-traffic-jam-assistant-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/audi-traffic-jam-assistant-628.jpg <![CDATA[Hands on with Mercedes-Benz mBrace2]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/hands-on-with-mercedes-benz-mbrace2/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/hands-on-with-mercedes-benz-mbrace2/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/hands-on-with-mercedes-benz-mbrace2/#commentsFiled under: CES, Technology, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury, Infotainment

Mercedes-Benz mBrace2

Following Dr. Z's keynote here at CES, Mercedes-Benz showed off the latest iteration of its telematics and infotainment system, mBrace2.

The system simply expands and enhances what M-B's system has been doing for the last few years, integrating Facebook, Google Point of Interest searches and now Google Street View into the current COMAND interface.

There's a full-scale browser controlled by the central COMAND knob, but as you can see in the video after the jump, a combination of spotty data access (the CES show floor needs its own spectrum) and some oddly chosen user interface decisions makes for a rather clunky experience.

Data issues aside, the biggest problem is using the outmoded concept of a pointer to select things on the screen. That's fine for PCs, but using a five-way controller to pan and click around a page is infuriatingly frustrating. Here's hoping M-B irons out the kinks before mBrace2 arrives on the all-new SL and the rest of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz lineup.

Continue reading Hands on with Mercedes-Benz mBrace2

Hands on with Mercedes-Benz mBrace2 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2012mbracembrace2mercedesmercedes benzmercedes-benzmercedes-benz mbracemercedes-benz mbrace2slsl-classWed, 11 Jan 2012 15:59:00 EST

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20145617/article-comments.xml

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/11/hands-on-with-mercedes-benz-mbrace2/20145617/article-detail.xml

20145617 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/mbrace2-ces-2012-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/mbrace2-ces-2012-628.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class to feature all-new infotainment system]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-to-feature-all-new-infotainment-syste/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-to-feature-all-new-infotainment-syste/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-to-feature-all-new-infotainment-syste/#commentsFiled under: Sedan, CES, Technology, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury, Infotainment

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class spy shot

Mercedes-Benz is making a big splash at CES this year, finally bringing a booth to the party and trotting out Daimler head Dr. Dieter Zetsche to keynote Tuesday morning's festivities.

The big news is the introduction of mBrace2, Mercedes' new cloud-based entertainment and information delivery system that debuts on the all-new SL roadster and proliferating through the Benz lineup in 2013.

We just wrapped up a hands-on with the prototype system (coming soon), but if you're looking for a thoroughly updated COMAND interface, you're in for disappointment.

The same beige and black user interface carries over with mBrace2, but there's attractive news on the horizon. Mercedes tells us that an all-new and completely redesigned interface is due to debut on the 2014 S-Class, which will drop the 90s-era graphics for a more modern, intuitive design. And if it's anything like the system Mercedes showed off with the Concept A-Class, things are finally looking up for Benz infotainment.

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class to feature all-new infotainment system originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 mercedes-benz s-classcesces 2012mercedesmercedes benzmercedes s-classmercedes-benzs classs klasses-classs-klasseWed, 11 Jan 2012 13:31:00 EST

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20145618/article-comments.xml

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/11/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-to-feature-all-new-infotainment-syste/20145618/article-detail.xml

20145618 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-mercedes-benz-s-class-spy-shots-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-mercedes-benz-s-class-spy-shots-628.jpg <![CDATA[Audi shows off 2013 A3 interior with new Audi Connect, we go hands-on [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/audi-shows-off-2013-a3-interior-with-new-audi-connect-we-go-han/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/audi-shows-off-2013-a3-interior-with-new-audi-connect-we-go-han/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/audi-shows-off-2013-a3-interior-with-new-audi-connect-we-go-han/#commentsFiled under: Sedan, CES, Technology, Hatchback, Audi, Infotainment

Audi has tripled the size of its booth here at CES, and contained within is a mockup of the next A3's interior. Well, half of it. But the functional display was designed to showcase the latest generation of Audi Connect, the automaker's reworked infotainment system that's set to debut on the 2013 Audi A3.

As we exclusively revealed to you last year, Audi is incorporating its touchpad technology (originally fitted to the A7 and A8) directly into its Multi Media Interface (MMI) control knob, negating the need to move one's hand to write individual letters for navigation, point-of-interest and web searches. As expected, the knob has grown in size, but the additional girth isn't a bad thing. Audi has also nixed the traditional buttons flanking the knob and instead replaced them with toggle switches to swap between navigation, telephone, radio and media. From a muscle-memory point-of-view, this should be a good thing.

The other major upgrade is under the dash, with the installation of Audi's first Multi-Media Extension (MMX) board. This new modular board incorporates an NVIDIA Tegra graphics processor that not only displays fantastic images and 3D animations on the ultra-thin seven-inch display, it can be swapped out as chipset technology evolves. Audi has also expanded its Google Earth integration to include Google Street View and a new iPhone cradle in the armrest boosts the phone's signal to keep the data flowing. We were also told that inductive charging could be included in the cradle, but that might be one system that's left on the cutting room floor. Get a sample of it all in our hands-on video after the jump.

Continue reading Audi shows off 2013 A3 interior with new Audi Connect, we go hands-on [w/video]

Audi shows off 2013 A3 interior with new Audi Connect, we go hands-on [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 19:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a3audiaudi connectedcesces 2012connectivityfeaturedtelematicsvideoTue, 10 Jan 2012 19:27:00 EST

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20145623/article-comments.xml

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/10/audi-shows-off-2013-a3-interior-with-new-audi-connect-we-go-han/20145623/article-detail.xml

20145623 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/ces120006large-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/ces120006large-628.jpg <![CDATA[AOL Autos announces new Technology of the Year award]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/aol-autos-announces-new-technology-of-the-year-award/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/aol-autos-announces-new-technology-of-the-year-award/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/aol-autos-announces-new-technology-of-the-year-award/#commentsFiled under: CES

With in-car technology coming fast and furious at this week's North American International Auto Show and the Consumer Electronics Show, it seems like the perfect week for AOL Autos, Autoblog, Translogic and Engadget to announce a new "Technology of the Year" Award program that will reward the best purveyors of new tech, and serve as a useful hub of info for our readers.

At CES today, AOL Autos Editor-in-Chief David Kiley is announcing the new award, which will be rolled out throughout 2012, with a winner presented with the laurels at next year's CES.

A panel of judges will be evaluating new or improved tech in the categories of telematics, connectivity and active safety. The judging panel includes Kiley, Autoblog editor-in-chief John Neff, Engadget editor-in-chief Tim Stevens, Autoblog senior editor Damon Lavrinc, AOL Autos Tech Editor Jeff Sabatini, and HuffingtonPost auto industry senior editor Sharon Silke Carty. The judging board also includes Tony Fadell, founder of www.nest.com, who is also the former Apple engineer often referred to as "The Father of the iPod. Author Lauren "The Car Coach" Fix, and Shelby "The Teen Car Coach" Fix are also judges.

AOL Autos has also assembled this unique judging panel to evaluate technology advances introduced each year and will name the best at the 2013 Consumer Electronics Show.

"AOL Autos is the obvious source to bring together the best and brightest arbiters of automotive and electronic communications hardware into one industry award," explained Kiley. "Tapping into the expertise of AOL Autos, Autoblog, and Engadget, AOL is uniquely positioned to evaluate and ultimately name an annual Technology of the Year winner."

You can go to the homepage of the award program, http://autos.aol.com/award/, which explains the award parameters, lists stories about new tech that will be eligible for nomination this year, as well as an opportunity to win a Samsung flat-screen TV and Roku if you sign up for our Tech of the Year e-newsletter this week, which will keep you up to date on all the new eligible technology.

Finalists for the award will be announced at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show. And between the LA Auto Show and CES, said Kiley, "Our readers will have an opportunity to cast votes for the best tech, and their consensus winner will carry the weight of one judge on the panel." Said Kiley, "Even if our readers don't have the chance to test the technology themselves, we want to know what they think about our coverage and the concepts they are reading about."

Continue reading AOL Autos announces new Technology of the Year award

AOL Autos announces new Technology of the Year award originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aol autoscesces 2012technology of the year awardTue, 10 Jan 2012 15:30:00 EST

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20145348/article-comments.xml

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/10/aol-autos-announces-new-technology-of-the-year-award/20145348/article-detail.xml

20145348 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/cesawardbrandingwhitespace_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/cesawardbrandingwhitespace.png <![CDATA[Hands-on with Chevrolet MyLink for the 2013 Sonic, Spark]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/hands-on-with-chevrolet-mylink-for-the-2013-sonic-spark/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/hands-on-with-chevrolet-mylink-for-the-2013-sonic-spark/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/hands-on-with-chevrolet-mylink-for-the-2013-sonic-spark/#commentsFiled under: Budget, CES, Videos, Hatchback, Chevrolet, Infotainment

We got our first taste of Chevrolet's new entry-level version of MyLink at CES, and for being a pre-production unit that's not due to arrive in showrooms until later this year, we're throughly impressed.

The system uses a seven-inch resistive touchscreen to display the basics - audio, telephone and settings - along with a photo/video viewer (only functional when the car is stationary) and an app launcher.

The only two apps currently available are Pandora and Stitcher, but there's a lot of space to fill on that screen and the reps we spoke to made it clear that they're in talks with other third-party developers.

What impressed the most was both the responsiveness - something other automakers have been combating for some time - and the overall design, which is clean, clear and straight-forward (and how can you go wrong with Helvetica Neue?). It's everything we want in a touchscreen interface and nothing more.

Well, almost.

There's no embedded navigation system, so you'll be relying on OnStar to provide directions. That said, turn-by-turn guidance will be ported through the head unit, so it's better than dealing with arrows on a tiny screen nestled between the gauges. And what about voice control? For Android devices, Chevy is leveraging the built in voice search functionality. For the iPhone... not much, yet. But for a system that's aimed at subcompacts and with a price point that's sure to be more than palatable, you can't have the world. And aside from the Sync-equipped Ford Fiesta, there's nothing out there that even begins to compete. Check out the demo after the jump for more.

Continue reading Hands-on with Chevrolet MyLink for the 2013 Sonic, Spark

Hands-on with Chevrolet MyLink for the 2013 Sonic, Spark originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 chevrolet sonic2013 chevrolet sparkcesces 2012chevroletchevrolet mylinkchevrolet sonicchevrolet sparkmylinkmylink reviewTue, 10 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20144767/article-comments.xml

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/10/hands-on-with-chevrolet-mylink-for-the-2013-sonic-spark/20144767/article-detail.xml

20144767 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/mylink-spark-handson-ces2012-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/mylink-spark-handson-ces2012-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ford updates Sync Destinations with voice controls, better traffic data]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/ford-updates-sync-destinations-with-voice-controls-better-traff/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/ford-updates-sync-destinations-with-voice-controls-better-traff/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/ford-updates-sync-destinations-with-voice-controls-better-traff/#commentsFiled under: Technology, Ford, Infotainment

Sync Destinations

Ford is extending its AppLink support to its own Sync Destinations app, finally providing voice control and including more accurate, real-time traffic and rerouting data thanks to its partnership with Inrix.

Surprisingly, you weren't able to access the app through voice commands before, but this latest version of Destinations allows the driver to access all the traffic, saved routes and direction services without having to tap their phone or touchscreen.

In addition to routing to saved destinations, users can send an address from their smartphone directly to the Sync system, get real-time traffic data with rerouting and report accidents, which helps increase the accuracy of Inrix's crowd-sourced traffic information.

The updated app for iPhones will be rolling out soon, but Android users will have to hold out for a few more months. Full details in the press blast and video below the fold.

Continue reading Ford updates Sync Destinations with voice controls, better traffic data

Ford updates Sync Destinations with voice controls, better traffic data originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 10:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applinkcesces 2012fordford destinationsTue, 10 Jan 2012 10:16:00 EST

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20144615/article-comments.xml

http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/10/ford-updates-sync-destinations-with-voice-controls-better-traff/20144615/article-detail.xml

20144615 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/inrix-sync-dest-2012_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/inrix-sync-dest-2012.jpg -1 2