Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[BREAKING: Hyundai developing competitor for OnStar, Sync... but new system needs a name]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/breaking-hyundai-developing-competitor-for-onstar-sync-but/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/breaking-hyundai-developing-competitor-for-onstar-sync-but/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/breaking-hyundai-developing-competitor-for-onstar-sync-but/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Hyundai Equus - Click above for high-res image gallery

As part of its product and marketing development process, Hyundai has reached out to owners and enthusiasts to create a network of consumers with which to discuss everything from future models and technologies to advertising tactics, polls, and so on.

Autoblog has learned of a communiqué issued to members late last week where Dean Macko, Hyundai's Manager of Brand Strategy, appealed to focus group members to help come up with a name for a new "Advanced Technological System" - a telematics package likened repeatedly to General Motors' OnStar and Ford's Microsoft Sync.

According to Macko, the system Hyundai is pursuing focuses on "four buckets of service": Safety and Security (including theft immobilization and automatic emergency service notification in the event of a crash), Infotainment (wireless connectivity features for telephone, music, etc.), Navigation (like OnStar's turn-by-turn direction service), and Vehicle Diagnostics, a tool for both owners and dealers that could help track the need for maintenance and potentially even notify one's dealer to order parts for a forthcoming repair.

Macko admits Hyundai has come up with a number of possible names on its own, including In Touch, Ring, Fuse and Emerge, but the company is reaching out to its network for suggestions. Calling them "naming experts," Macko indicates that this focus group has already helped come up with titles for future paint colors.

To be clear, in Macko's video message, he only says that Hyundai is "thinking about" introducing such a system - he does not commit to a product, timetable, or price. However, given the tone of his message and the nature of the group that Macko is appealing to, we have to believe that this new technology is just around the corner... perhaps tied to the launch of the Equus luxury sedan?

Hyundai apparently needs these naming suggestions by this Wednesday, November 4, and while most of you probably aren't part of Hyundai's focus group, we know that top company officials trawl these hallowed precincts on a daily basis. Thus, if you have a suggestion of your own, why not drop it in 'Comments' - who knows, they just might pick yours. Thanks for the tip, Mike!


Gallery: Quick Spin: Hyundai Equus

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BREAKING: Hyundai developing competitor for OnStar, Sync... but new system needs a name originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 20:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluetoothbreakingbreakingnewsconnectivityDean MackoDeanMackoFord SyncFordSyncGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMGPShaptichyundaiimmobilizerinfotainmentinfotainment systemInfotainmentSystemMicrosoftMicrosoft SyncMicrosoftSyncOn StarOnstarSat-navtelematictelematicstheft recoveryTheftRecoveryvehicle diagnosticsvehicle immobilizationVehicleDiagnosticsVehicleImmobilizationwireless connectivityWirelessConnectivityMon, 02 Nov 2009 20:31:00 EST<![CDATA[J.D. Power study shows people interested in new car tech, but not if they have to pay for it]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/09/j-d-power-study-shows-people-interested-in-new-car-tech-but-no/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/09/j-d-power-study-shows-people-interested-in-new-car-tech-but-no/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/09/j-d-power-study-shows-people-interested-in-new-car-tech-but-no/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Smaller, cheaper electronics have been a boon for the auto industry, as car technology has boomed over the past few years. J.D. Power has been studying the tech trend, surveying over 19,000 potential car buyers to gauge interest in new tech like nav systems and infotainment systems. The powerful research company found that customers are now far more tech-savvy than they were in the past, and they're also very interested in adding new features to their next car purchase. That's great news for automakers, but unfortunately (and unsurprisingly), many aren't interested in paying for the new features.

J.D. Powers found that 67% of those surveyed were interested in a navigation system. But when the average price of $1,600 was revealed, the number dropped to only 20%. Luxury buyers were a bit more interested, though only 45% of those surveyed would still opt for the interactive LCD. Cheaper off-board navigation services like On-Star or Ford's SYNC direction service weren't very good alternatives, either. Only one-third of those who were interested in navigation would go the off-board route, even though the systems have proven to be very effective and easy-to-use. We're guessing that part of the allure of the LCD nav is that it makes the whole dash look more high-end.

Customers are also very interested in utilizing their MP3 players in the car. Nearly two-thirds wanted the ability to listen to their music players in the car, while 27% wanted "smart phone" music connectivity. Of those who already use their music devices in their car, over half use an auxiliary jack, and 20% use an FM transmitter. Hit the jump to pour over the J.D. Power press release.

[Source: J.D. Power]

Continue reading J.D. Power study shows people interested in new car tech, but not if they have to pay for it

J.D. Power study shows people interested in new car tech, but not if they have to pay for it originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Jun 2009 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>infotainmentj.d. powerJ.d.Powerjd powerJdPowernav systemNavSystemon-starTue, 09 Jun 2009 11:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford launches new free app for 2010 vehicles with SYNC]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/31/ford-launches-new-free-app-for-2010-vehicles-with-sync/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/31/ford-launches-new-free-app-for-2010-vehicles-with-sync/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/31/ford-launches-new-free-app-for-2010-vehicles-with-sync/#commentsFiled under: ,



SYNC has given Ford a much-needed technology boost. The infotainment device provides motorists with features such as voice-controlled integration with MP3 players and automatic calls to emergency services in the event of an accident. For the 2010 model year, SYNC adds GPS hardware, giving owners access to traffic, directions, and information.

SYNC TDI works through your Bluetooth-enabled mobile phone to deliver real-time traffic information and turn by turn directions. SYNC TDI can also be personalized to deliver real-time updates of sports scores, weather, entertainment news and more. There is no subscription fee, either, because SYNC TDI uses your existing phone service, which you're already paying for.

This update is now available at syncmyride.com for owners of SYNC-equipped 2010 model-year Ford, Lincoln and Mercury models. The download only works with vehicles that aren't equipped with Ford's voice-activated navigation system.

To update your SYNC, load the SYNC TDI to a thumb drive, then start your car and plug into the USB port. SYNC will give you two completion notices; at one minute and again within 10 minutes. Once the download is complete, you have to reconnect your USB device to your computer, Log into syncmyride.com, and register the successful download. It's a bit of a bulky process to get SYNC TDI operational, but we're guessing real-time traffic, weather, sports, and directions will be worth your trouble. Hit the jump to pore over Ford's detailed press release.

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford launches new free app for 2010 vehicles with SYNC

Ford launches new free app for 2010 vehicles with SYNC originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 31 May 2009 09:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordinfotainmentsyncsync appSyncApptechnologySun, 31 May 2009 09:51:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Volkswagen's next-gen nav system to get Apple iPhone-like gestures]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/21/report-volkswagens-next-gen-nav-system-to-get-apple-iphone-lik/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/21/report-volkswagens-next-gen-nav-system-to-get-apple-iphone-lik/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/21/report-volkswagens-next-gen-nav-system-to-get-apple-iphone-lik/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Vehicle infotainment systems, those all-inclusive interfaces controlling the myriad electronics on today's modern cars and trucks, can make or break the driving experience. CNET is offering us a sneak-peek at Volkswagen's latest iteration from the company's Electronic Research Laboratory (ERL). Developed with Intel, the new system uses Global Open Research Infotainment Architecture, or GLORIA.

Most systems today us a joystick-like device, touch screen, or hard buttons on the edge of the display (or a combination of the three) to control the inputs. Volkswagen's new GLORIA system takes it one step further by making Apple iPhone-like "gesture control" possible. This means that users are able to navigate quickly by simply tracing single letters across the pressure-sensitive display. Another unique feature may allow users to import third-party widgets for the system, much like consumers currently load apps from iTunes onto their iPhones. As cool as it sounds, GLORIA is still under development and she isn't expected to see showrooms for a few more years.

[Source: CNET, Photo by CNET]

REPORT: Volkswagen's next-gen nav system to get Apple iPhone-like gestures originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 May 2009 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>first lookFirstLookfutureGLORIAinfotainmentiPhoneiPodiTunestechnologyVolkswagenThu, 21 May 2009 13:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi's new MMI system will debut in Q5]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/05/audis-new-mmi-system-will-debut-in-q5/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/05/audis-new-mmi-system-will-debut-in-q5/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/05/audis-new-mmi-system-will-debut-in-q5/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click on image above for a high-res photo gallery of the Audi Q5

Audi's next-gen Multi-Media Interface (MMI) technology will debut in the new Audi Q5 compact crossover arriving later this year. Built by Harmon/Becker Automotive Systems, it is reportedly going to set benchmarks for automotive navigation, communication, and wide-screen entertainment. (We'll just pretend we've never heard that before.)

In any case, the system utilizes a high-performance NVIDIA(R) graphics processor for smooth map transitions, even while underway. Vehicle orientation is enhanced by a three-dimensional view with true-to-scale terrain, and photorealistic depictions of key landmarks. They've even gone so far (too far?) as to include commercial points of interest complete with brand logos for easier driver identification. The new MMI will include support for external USB storage media (iPod or MP3), satellite radio, and it contains an integral four-band GSM cell phone (SIM card ready) with Bluetooth connectivity. While we welcome a faster processor, let's hope the additional complexity comes with a simplified interface. Having spent hours futzing with the current-gen MMI, and the competition's COMAND and iDrive infotainment systems... we are crossing our fingers, but still reserving judgment until we actually use it.

Hit the jump for the press release.

Gallery: Beijing '08: 2009 Audi Q5

Continue reading Audi's new MMI system will debut in Q5

Audi's new MMI system will debut in Q5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Jun 2008 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AudiBluetoothgenerationGSM Cell PhoneGsmCellPhoneInfotainmentMMINext-genThu, 05 Jun 2008 09:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Striking a chord: Panasonic and Fender planning branded car audio system]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/17/striking-a-chord-panasonic-and-fender-planning-branded-car-audi/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/17/striking-a-chord-panasonic-and-fender-planning-branded-car-audi/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/17/striking-a-chord-panasonic-and-fender-planning-branded-car-audi/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Fender guitars rock. Even the cheapies are easy to play and sound good in the right hands. Panasonic and Fender are teaming up to create an audio system that will be offered to auto manufacturers. Nigel and Slash have already been snagged by Volkswagen with their First Act package deal (buy a VW, they throw in the guitar that plugs into the car's audio system). We're guessing that the pitch for the Fender/Panasonic system will be along the same lines, though; and aimed at the younger demographic. The working partnership of Fender and Panasonic even trotted out Dick Dale at the NAIAS to promote their idea. Hey, in the right car, this could be magic. You could turn all that traffic-jam time into productive practice! Campers would no longer have to settle for singing "Blowin' In The Wind." With a guitar-enabled audio system, you could, as Bob Dylan told his band at Newport, "play f***ing loud."

[Source: Edmunds]

Striking a chord: Panasonic and Fender planning branded car audio system originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Jan 2007 19:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audio systemAudioSystemFenderguitarin car electronicsInCarElectronicsinfotainmentPanasonicradiostereoWed, 17 Jan 2007 19:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Lexus LS460 named gadget hound's ride of choice]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/05/18/lexus-ls460-named-gadget-hounds-ride-of-choice/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/05/18/lexus-ls460-named-gadget-hounds-ride-of-choice/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/05/18/lexus-ls460-named-gadget-hounds-ride-of-choice/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

If you think that the kid with the most toys wins, you might be interested to know that the Lexus LS 460 has been named the king of high-tech by the Telematics Research Group. TRG says that the LS will have more technology features than any other vehicle offered for sale in the North American market when it rolls off the production line for the 2007 model year. Special gadgets include the vehicle's 30GB hard drive for navigation and music, parking aid cameras, a 19-speaker sound system capable of reading MP3 and other media formats, Bluetooth, voice-activated navigation and other goodies.

[Sources: Telematics Research Group; Lexus]

Lexus LS460 named gadget hound's ride of choice originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 May 2006 07:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluetoothbmwCadillacgadgetsInfinitiinfotainmentituneslexusmercedesMP3techTelematicsThu, 18 May 2006 07:04:00 EST