Ford will be picking up two awards at the International CES (Consumer Electronics Show) 2010 Innovations Design and Engineering Awards for its Ford Work Solutions and SYNC system.

“Our customers want the latest in connectivity and technology – making their drive experience more enjoyable and convenient,” said Mark Fields, president, The Americas, Ford Motor Company. “We’re honored that CES has recognized our efforts in providing these customer-driven features.”

Ford Work Solutions’ in-dash computer took the 2010 Best of Innovations in the category of In-Vehicle Accessories, while the company’s SYNC applications, Traffic, Directions & Information, was honored in the category of In-Vehicle Navigation/Telematics/ITS (Intelligent Transportation System).

Click through for the press release.

Press Release:

FORD WORK SOLUTIONS AND SYNC CONNECTIVITY SYSTEMS HONORED WITH CES INNOVATION AWARDS

* Ford Work Solutions™ and SYNC® application Traffic, Directions & Information recognized with International CES Innovations Design and Engineering Awards
* Ford Work Solutions’ in-dash computer won 2010 Best of Innovations in the In-Vehicle Accessories category. The new SYNC application is an honoree in the category of In-Vehicle Navigation/Telematics/ITS
* Judged by a preeminent panel of independent industrial designers, engineers and media, the International CES Innovations 2010 Design and Engineering awards recognize outstanding design and engineering in cutting-edge consumer electronics products across 36 categories
* Ford Work Solutions and SYNC Traffic, Directions & Information will be demonstrated at the 2010 International CES, Jan. 7-10, 2010, in Las Vegas

FORD TAURUS – AMERICA’S MOST INNOVATIVE SEDAN – NAMED “OFFICIAL CAR” OF THE 2010 INTERNATIONAL CES

NEW YORK, Nov. 10, 2009 – Ford’s wide-ranging, customer-driven in-vehicle technology and features continue to gain recognition and awards from industry experts. Both Ford Work Solutions and SYNC – two Ford-exclusive technologies – will be honored with International CES (Consumer Electronics Show) 2010 Innovations Design and Engineering Awards.

Ford Work Solutions’ in-dash computer won 2010 Best of Innovations in the category of In-Vehicle Accessories. SYNC’s latest application, Traffic, Directions & Information, was honored in the category of In-Vehicle Navigation/Telematics/ITS (Intelligent Transportation System).

Products entered in this prestigious program are judged by a preeminent panel of independent industrial designers, engineers and members of the media to honor outstanding design and engineering in cutting-edge consumer electronics products across 36 categories.

The Innovations entries are judged based on the following criteria:

* Engineering qualities, based on technical specs and materials used
* Aesthetic and design qualities, using photos provided
* The product’s intended use/function and user value
* Unique/novel features that consumers would find attractive
* How the design and innovation of the product compares to other products in the marketplace

Ford Work Solutions enables greater productivity for fleets, commercial customers
Ford Work Solutions is a collection of technologies created to provide Ford commercial truck and van customers with connectivity, flexibility and security to better manage their businesses. Available on Ford F-150, F-Series Super Duty, E-Series vans and the new Transit Connect, Ford Work Solutions delivers four innovative features:

* An in-dash computer developed with Magneti Marelli and powered by Microsoft Auto that provides full high-speed Internet access via the Sprint Mobile Broadband Network, Bluetooth-enabled hands-free calling and navigation by Garmin. The first broadband-capable in-dash computer in production, the system allows customers to print invoices, check inventories and access documents stored on their home or office computer networks – right on the job site. The office is now mobile.
* Tool Link™, a Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) asset tracking system developed in association with DeWALT™, the industry leader in professional power tools, and ThingMagic, the industry expert on embedded RFID technology. This technology enables customers to maintain a detailed real-time inventory of the tools or equipment stored in the pickup box.
* Crew Chief™, a fleet tracking, telematics and diagnostics system, offered with market-leading telematics specialist Microlise, provides dynamic location and performance data fleet owners need to more efficiently manage their vehicles, quickly dispatch workers to job sites, monitor driver performance for safety and economy, and keep detailed vehicle maintenance records.
* Cable Lock security system developed in association with Master Lock®, the industry-leading lock manufacturer, discourages theft of expensive tools too large to fit in the cab.

“Ford Work Solutions is just another example of how we listen to our truck customers and deliver features and technology to help them do their jobs easier and more efficiently,” said Bill Frykman, business development manager for Ford Work Solutions. “We’ve been the leader in the segment for 32 years by delivering real-world solutions to our customers. For example, fleets using Crew Chief have experienced increases in fuel economy in excess of 20 percent.”

Keeping you connected
Ford SYNC’s latest application – Traffic, Directions & Information – leverages industry-leading voice-recognition software, integrated GPS technology and a customer’s Bluetooth-capable mobile phone. It provides simple hands-free access to personalized traffic reports, precise turn-by-turn driving directions and up-to-date information including business listings, news, sports and weather.

These new capabilities are in addition to SYNC’s established hallmark suite of services, from hands-free, voice-activated cell phone and digital media player integration to the more recent security and convenience additions of 911 Assist™ and Vehicle Health Report.

Introduced in 2007, more than 80 percent of the vehicles Ford sells in North America are equipped with SYNC, and more than 1 million SYNC-equipped vehicles are on the road today.

2010 International CES
Ford Work Solutions and SYNC with Traffic, Directions & Information will be on display at the 2010 International CES, which runs Jan. 7-10, 2010 in Las Vegas. The Innovations Design and Engineering Showcase will feature honorees by product category in the Grand Lobby of the Las Vegas Convention Center and they will also be featured at CES Unveiled: The Official Press Event of the International CES on Jan. 5.

Innovations 2010 Design and Engineering honoree products are featured on www.CESweb.org/Innovations, which lists product categories, as well as each product name, manufacturer information, designer, description, photo and URL.

The prestigious Innovations Design and Engineering Awards have been recognizing achievements in product design and engineering since 1976. It is sponsored by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA®), the producer of the International CES, the world’s largest consumer technology trade show, and endorsed by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA), the voice of industrial design, committed to advancing the profession through education, information, community and advocacy.

- By: Stephen Calogera

Ford announced today that its new 2010 Ford Taurus will be the official vehicle of the 2010 International CES show that will be held on Jan. 7-10 in Las Vegas.’

“The all-new Taurus is Ford’s technology flagship, offering more user-friendly technology to help keep you safe and connected than cars twice its price,” said Frank Davis, executive director Product Development. “And there’s no better venue to show it off than CES.”

FoMoCo’s CEO Alan Mulally will be delivering the opening keynote address at the 2010 CES show where Ford will also announce upgrades to its Ford SYNC system.

The 2010 Ford Taurus is available at dealerships nationwide with prices starting at $25,995.

Make sure you check out our review of the 2010 Ford Taurus SHO here.

Click through for more information in the press release.

Review: 2010 Ford Taurus SHO:

All Photos Copyright © 2009 Omar Rana – egmCarTech.

Press Release:

FORD TAURUS – AMERICA’S MOST INNOVATIVE SEDAN – NAMED “OFFICIAL CAR” OF THE 2010 INTERNATIONAL CES

* The 2010 Ford Taurus will be the official car of the 2010 International CES®, to be held Jan. 7-10 in Las Vegas
* The all-new Taurus is a perfect fit for CES – it offers 10 class-exclusive technologies not available from any other manufacturer
* The Ford Taurus offers more user-friendly technology than other cars twice its price

NEW YORK, Nov. 10, 2009 – The smartest full-size sedan in America, the hot-selling 2010 Ford Taurus, will be the official vehicle of the 2010 International CES (Consumer Electronics Show®), to be held Jan. 7-10 in Las Vegas.

Ford President and Chief Executive Officer Alan Mulally will deliver the opening keynote address at CES, where Ford also will announce enhancements to its award-winning Ford SYNC® communications and entertainment system as well as new technology that builds on the company’s connected-car leadership position.

As the official car of CES, the Ford Taurus will be featured prominently with technology demonstrations and in signage, brochures and other written materials at the show.

“Consumers demand the latest on-the-go innovation in their cars. Ford automobiles are built with cutting-edge technology that makes driving safer and more enjoyable,” said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO of the Consumer Electronics Association® (CEA), producer of the International CES. “We are thrilled to welcome Ford to the 2010 International CES and to name the new Ford Taurus as the ‘Official Car of CES.’ We also look forward to hearing Ford’s Alan Mulally kick off the 2010 CES with his opening keynote address on Thursday, Jan. 7.”

As Davis notes, the all-new Ford Taurus is a perfect fit for CES – the world’s largest consumer technology trade show for the $172 billion U.S. consumer electronics industry. In addition to its expressive styling, the vehicle is loaded with advanced features, making it a virtual dream come true for avid techies.

“The Ford Taurus has 10 class-exclusive features not available from any other manufacturer,” said Davis. “This vehicle offers it all – from Multi-Contour Seats with Active Motion™ that are designed to reduce fatigue on long-distance drives to a voice-activated navigation system that can tell you real-time traffic and weather information, and even where to find the cheapest gas.”

The Taurus also offers the latest application of SYNC – Traffic, Directions & Information – along with 911 Assist™ and Vehicle Health Report. SYNC’s USB port and Bluetooth capability connects to MP3 players, memory sticks and smartphones, making them accessible by voice control – a more convenient and safe way to use these devices in the car.

For techies with teenaged drivers, Taurus offers MyKey™, a feature that allows parents to program a key that can limit the vehicle’s top speed and audio volume to encourage teens to drive safer and improve fuel efficiency.

In addition to Multi-Contour Seats with Active Motion, voice-activated navigation, SYNC and MyKey, other class-exclusive technologies available on the Ford Taurus include:

* EasyFuel® Capless Fuel-Filler – a self-seal system without a traditional fuel cap. No lost, dangling, or spinning caps. It seals automatically, every time.
* SecuriCode™ Keyless Entry Keypad – a feature that allows you to unlock the driver’s door by entering a five-digit code via a flush-mounted keypad
* Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning with Brake Support – a feature that allows you to set a cruising speed and uses radar technology to automatically adjust your speed and warn you if you’re getting too close to the vehicle in front of you
* Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross Traffic Alert – a feature that uses radar technology to warn you of vehicles in your blind spot and alert you to oncoming traffic when you’re backing out of a parking spot
* Sony Audio® System – a surround sound system that delivers Dolby® Digital 5.1 sound through 12 high-quality Sony speakers
* Available EcoBoost™ V-6 – a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V-6 engine that delivers the output of a V-8, 365 horsepower, without compromising its V-6 fuel economy

According to Davis, all of the technology offered on the Ford Taurus is sweetened by the vehicle’s price.

“Even the most zealous techies are careful with their money,” he said. “Taurus offers an unprecedented array of technologies typically reserved for luxury cars at a price that is affordable.”

In addition to being named official vehicle of the 2010 International CES, the 2010 Ford Taurus SHO was dubbed Esquire magazine’s first-ever “Car of the Year.”

- By: Omar Rana

In effort to take on the Pikes Peak course, Audi has teamed up with Stanford University and its Stanford Dynamics Design Lab to build the Audi Pikes Peak TTS. Known as Shelley, the Audi TT will feature a drive by wire system that will be developed by Volkswagen Electronics Research Lab. They will make sure that Stanford’s control algorithms work properly for the TT to complete the course with no driver.

The 2009 Audi TTS features a 2.0 turbocharged inline 4 engine making 265-hp with a peak torque of 258 lb-ft. It is capable of going from 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. It is mated to a 6-Speed S tronic automatic transmission.

Make the jump for the press release for more details.

Audi Pikes Peak TTS (Shelley):

Press Release:

All about the Audi Pikes Peak TTS

The Audi Pikes Peak TTS is nicknamed “Shelley” by the Stanford DDL after Michele Mouton, arguably the most successful female rally driver to date who played a significant part in Audi’s racing history.

Goal
To collaborate with Stanford to build an autonomous vehicle capable of completing the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in a reasonable time using rally driving techniques.

Team:
Volkswagen Electronics Research Lab
Convert a vehicle to drive by wire, develop a safety architecture to ensure a reliable autonomous drive with no safety driver, and implement Stanford’s control algorithms on a system jointly developed with Sun Microsystems.

Stanford Dynamics Design Lab
Develop robust control algorithms that enable the vehicle to drive at the limits of handling on a variety of surfaces, and lets it complete the Pikes Peak course.

Sun Microsystems
Specify a hardware platform that can run Stanford’s real time algorithms and develop a framework that enables Real Time Java to the vehicle CAN system.

Vehicle:
Make and model: 2009 Audi TTS
Engine: 2.0L Turbocharged I4 DOHC
Transmission: 6-Speed S tronic automatic transmission
Fuel Consumption: City: 21 mpg
Highway: 29 mpg
Combined: 24
Power: 265 hp & 6000 rpm1
Torque: 258 lb-ft. @ 2500 – 5000 rpm
Top speed: 155 (249km/h),
Acceleration: 0-60mph: 4.9sec

Weight incl. sensor: ~ 1470kg.

Drive-By-Wire:
Steering: Modified ”APA-BS” (Axially Parallel Actuation-Braun-Schweig), a new production electric power steering system with direct by-wire control through custom ERL Electronics.
Throttle: Electronics from VW ERL reproduce signals to emulate a driver pressing on the throttle.
Brakes: Active brake booster from Continental with by-wire control through ERL Electronics.
Gear: Modification of signals exchanged between transmission and gear shifter using custom ERL electronics on production hardware.
Parking brake: Use of stock electric parking brake from VW Passat through a custom ERL electronic interface utilized on Junior.

Safety:
In addition to multiple redundant systems for vehicle control, and emergency shutdown the Pikes Peak TTS has a Solaris based system running a Java RTS system monitor that can perform a vehicle shutdown if it determines conditions have become unsafe.

As a backup solution, the vehicle includes a telemetry system that can transmit all vehicle parameters to a receiving station up to 20 miles away which can also shut down the vehicle remotely, or order the safety systems to engage and bring the car to a controlled stop.

Sensors:
The Pikes Peak TTS utilizes an Applanix POS LV420 GPS and Inertial Measurement Unit to measure its position.

Vehicle Control:
Hardware:
Two independent systems are being used in the Pikes Peak TTS, the initial controller development is being done on an XPC target using Matlab and Simulink which are the standard research tools from Stanford’s DDL. The final vehicle controls are being run on ruggedized custom built solutions running a Core2Duo CPU and Solaris operating system that is being developed in collaboration with Sun Microsystems.

Software:
The Stanford University Dynamics Design Lab is developing cutting edge control algorithms that look to optimize the ability to control the vehicle under the most demanding circumstances. As these algorithms are finalized they will be merged into a new framework being developed at the ERL based that shares many components with other ERL Autonomous driving projects.

- By: Kap Shah

Chrysler Group LLC announced today that it is the first automaker in the United States to offer live mobile TV to consumers in collaboration with FLO TV Auto Entertainment. The dealer-installed Mobile TV option will be offered from Mopar and will offer as many as 20 channels including college and professional sports, breaking news, children’s shows, primetime sitcoms, reality TV and daytime dramas.

The option will be available in late December with a $629 price-tag. A one-year pre-paid FLO TV service subscription is included with installation. After that, you’ll have to pay an annual subscription of $9 a month or less.

Check out the press release to see which vehicles qualify for the option. We’ve also added a video of the Mobile TV option in action.

Press Release:

Chrysler Group LLC is First Automaker in the United States to Offer Live, Mobile TV with up to 20 Channels

* Watch live sports, breaking news, kids’ programs and primetime network shows in the back seat
* Live mobile TV available on Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge Car and Ram Truck vehicles as a Mopar® option
* Live TV viewing of CBS Mobile, CNBC, Comedy Central, FOX News, MSNBC, MTV, NBC 2Go, Nickelodeon and more
* FLO TV™ Auto Entertainment will be available in late December for $629 plus installation, includes one-year subscription
* Mobile TV option includes 3-year/36,000-mile warranty for new vehicles and 12-month/12,000-mile warranty on used vehicles

Auburn Hills, Mich., Oct 29, 2009 - Mopar® is channeling live, mobile TV into Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge Car and Ram Truck vehicles.

Starting in late December, Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge Car and Ram Truck customers may watch many of their favorite TV programs with a dealer-installed mobile TV option from Mopar®.

Chrysler Group LLC is the first automaker in the United States to offer live mobile TV to consumers with the capacity for as many as 20 channels through FLO TV™ Auto Entertainment. The system offers something for everyone: college and professional sports, breaking news, children’s shows, primetime sitcoms, reality TV and daytime dramas.

Mopar will showcase FLO TV™ Auto Entertainment at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas next week.

“We want to offer our customers the ultimate in entertainment,” said Pietro Gorlier, President & Chief Executive Officer, Mopar Service, Parts & Customer Care. “With FLO TV Auto Entertainment, we are the first automaker to offer mobile TV with the capacity for as many as 20 channels.”

Until now, the challenge for mobile TV has been to deliver high-quality, uninterrupted coverage in urban environments and at highway speeds. Existing mobile TV systems in the United States either offer limited channels or require large satellite dishes on vehicle roofs – and a large price tag to match.

Mopar’s suggested retail price is $629, plus installation. A one-year pre-paid FLO TV service subscription is included with installation.

The entertainment package will be available as a dealer-installed option on the following 2008-2010 model year vehicles with factory DVD entertainment systems: Chrysler Town & Country, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Commander, Dodge Grand Caravan, Dodge Journey, Dodge Nitro, Ram 1500 and Ram 2500/3500.

The service also can be added to select 2008-2010 model-year vehicles when new Mopar headrest or seat-top DVD entertainment systems are purchased.

How it Works

Television signals are delivered through a dedicated multicast network built by San Diego-based FLO TV Inc., a live mobile TV service provider, and a wholly owned subsidiary of Qualcomm Inc. FLO TV offers live and time-shifted programming from top entertainment brands, including CBS Mobile, CNBC, Comedy Central, FOX News, MSNBC, MTV, NBC 2Go and Nickelodeon.

Up to 20 channels will be available in late December when the feature is available for dealer installation. By the end of 2009, the FLO TV service should be available in more than 100 major markets and many interstate driving corridors. The FLO TV service is not available in some rural areas.

Audiovox Corp., of Hauppauge, NY, supplies FLO TV™ Auto Entertainment hardware that integrates with Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge Car and Ram Truck vehicles’ existing entertainment systems and new Mopar 7-inch DVD screen systems. A small antenna, similar in size to a laptop mouse, is mounted on a vehicle’s roof to deliver the digital TV signal. Inside the vehicle, the receiver and wiring are installed under the interior trim of the vehicle and are not visible to occupants.

User-friendly wired and wireless remote controls allow viewers to easily surf channels, similar to TV systems at home.

Mopar’s FLO TV™ Auto Entertainment option includes a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty on new vehicles or a 12-month/12,000-mile warranty on used vehicles for hardware and installation.

Automobile options have certainly evolved over the years; there was once a time when air conditioning was an option.  We seem to be entering a new era however in automobile options as GM is making available this month, a dealer installed internet router, virtually turning your car into a Wi-Fi hot spot that reaches 150 feet around the car, reports Automotive News.

The device is made by San Francisco based manufacturer Autonet Mobile, and will be initially be available in GM vans, SUV’s, and crossovers and trucks.

The first batch of vehicles to offer the device are mainly family oriented ones, as the main idea is that rear-seat passengers can effectively use laptops and other portable devices while front-seat passengers might be able to do things like stream internet radio.

“Ninety percent of customers prefer surfing the Internet over just watching movies,” Sterling Pratz, Autonet Mobile’s chief executive told Automotive News. “Customers want the biggest brands the Internet has to offer in their car, such as Facebook, YouTube and FlyCast Internet radio.”

Autonet already supplies similar products for Chrysler and Volkswagen.

The device comes with a docking station, so that it may be transferred between multiple GM vehicles.  Dealers will begin to offer the product in showrooms next month, and the device is also sold on a GM accessories site; www.gmextras.com.  The unit retails for $499 and web access runs around $29 per month.

-By Stephen Calogera

Volkswagen is going to be launching their new 2010 Volkswagen GTI exclusively via their iPhone app. The move, an industry first, offers immense bang-for-the-advertising-buck according to the article. the annual budget for mobil services runs $500,000. Compare that to the $60 million media blitz that VW ran with the release of their 2006 GTI and it makes sense.

At first glance an iPhone/iPod touch only strategy may seem limiting, but consider this; there are a reported 50 million iPhone and iPod touch customers worldwide. CBS’s ‘NCIS’, the most-watched show for the week ending Oct 18, reached 21 million viewers and gets and average of $130,000 for a single 30-second spot.

The German automaker unveiled their GTI racing game for the Apple devices at a press event this week, and tied that in with a six-car giveaway for its gameplayers. “It’s a clever idea,” mobile-marketing consultant Raven Zachary, president of Small Society and founder of iPhoneDevCamp told Automotive News. “Licensing game technology saves VW considerable development cost and time to delivery. And the cost of six cars is not bad considering the cost of doing a print campaign or TV campaign.”

Volkswagen feel that their is good demographic overlap between their GTI target market and the iPhone user. An incentive beyond entertainment to download the game is that you can win a new GTI.

“For consumers, more game play means more chances to win one of the six limited-edition 2010 GTI’s.

You can check it out here.

-By Stephen Calogera

We’re pretty sure there have been times where you’ve been driving down the highway with your friends and one of them looks at you and goes “Did you just let one go?” You quickly reach for the air recirculation button and say “No man, that was from outside, that truck in front of me just let one go.”

Well, you can now avoid that awkward situation thanks to Infiniti’s new Forest Air, a new climate control system that emulates the air of the natural environment.

Here’s how it works:

The system avoids the air-conditioned artificiality of simple climate control set-ups by adding gentle breezes and optimizing humidity. All this is delivered at the temperature of the occupants’ choice, while greatly reducing the possibility of unpleasant odors or pollen entering the cabin.

The new technology will be available in the 2011 Infiniti M, which is scheduled to hit dealerships in spring 2010.

Click here fore more Infiniti M news.

2011 Infiniti M:

Press Release:

Infiniti Creates a “Forest Retreat” In The Urban Jungle
– All-New 2011 Infiniti M to Offer Innovative Forest Air System –

Infiniti is making driving in the urban jungle a little more tolerable – with a breath of fresh air. The all-new 2011 Infiniti M, which is scheduled to arrive at Infiniti retailers beginning in spring 2010, will be equipped with a newly-developed climate control system that emulates the air of the natural environment.

Infiniti looked to the forest for inspiration. The automaker believes most people rank forest air as the cleanest and most refreshing. As such, it’s ideal atmosphere to emulate on promoting an overall feeling of wellness in a car’s interior, as well as helping keep the driver alert.

Appropriately called Forest Air, the system avoids the air-conditioned artificiality of simple climate control set-ups by adding gentle breezes and optimizing humidity. All this is delivered at the temperature of the occupants’ choice, while greatly reducing the possibility of unpleasant odors or pollen entering the cabin.

The result is Infiniti’s most sophisticated climate control system yet and one that the engineers who developed it believe is class-leading in many ways. The system offers exceptionally clean and refreshing air quality in nearly all driving situations.

Forest Air System is an umbrella term for several areas of technology, some new and some, such as the Plasmacluster* air purifier, building on proven Infiniti innovations.

Instead of blasting air into occupants’ faces, the new M delivers a gentle breeze. Air from the instrument panel vents is modulated so it feels far more natural, making the whole cabin environment a more pleasant place to be.

Humidity control plays a part in the Infiniti M’s always-fresh interior. Air-conditioners are good at taking all the humidity out, making interior air very dry. Forest Air System leaves a comfortable amount of moisture in the air, avoiding the dried-out feeling but without allowing the windows to fog up. The very precise humidity monitoring needed to achieve this is provided by exterior and interior sensors mounted at the top of the windshield.

For all this to work depends on a first line of defense in keeping bad air out, and the 2011 Infiniti M will have it. Again the system relies heavily on sensors – not just to close the air intake when an odor outside is detected, but also to neutralize bad air already inside, such as tobacco smoke. Active control like this results in as oxygen-rich an interior as possible with low CO2 levels.

Allergens are effectively kept out of the cabin by a new filter in the air-conditioning system. The filter’s fibers are impregnated with natural grape-seed polyphenol that brings a remarkable rise in efficiency. The effect of cedar pollen allergens, for example, is cut by 88 per cent compared to a regular filter.

Another ingredient in the Forest Air System is Infiniti’s Plasmacluster air purifier. Now more powerful and sensitive than ever, its stream of high-density ions is able to decompose the smells that cling to interior trim, down to barely-detectable levels. Apart from this improved deodorizing function, the Plasmacluster is more effective now at inactivating bacteria, mold, viruses and allergens.

With the Forest Air System, the all-new 2011 Infiniti M will demonstrate what Infiniti has always believed: that quality of air is a key factor in helping keep the driver stress-free and alert, and passengers comfortable and relaxed.

You can save a history of the test-results on your phone and export high-resolution graphs, which can then be viewed and sent from your BlackBerry Storm.

DynoStorm also supports both U.S. and Metric units of measurements. The app costs a mere $12.99.

Head over to PocketBerry for the download link.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: PocketBerry

Viper has introduced a new iPhone app that lets your start your car remotely as well as lock and unlock the doors along with a panic button. However, it’s not as simple as downloading the app, installing it and aiming at your car.

If you don’t already own a Viper alarm system, you’ll have to cash out $499.99. If you already have a Viper alarm system, the SmarStart app will cost you $300. Not to mention there is a 29.99 a year subscription fee.

Why do you need to pay $29.99 a year? Viper says that the “SmartStart is an ‘always-on’ connected device that communicates over the GSM network. Just like a cell phone, the SmartStart requires a service plan from 3rd party provider to communicate over the network.”

Once you cash out all that money, you can start showing off to all your friends. Just make sure you have your keys with you – you never know when your iPhone battery might die.

Check out the Viper SmartStart site here.

Click through for a video demo.

- By: Omar Rana

Ford has announced that it is working with Auburn University on a new project that allows GPS satellites to talk to a car in order to avoid accidents in the future. The project is part of FoMoCo’s $4 million investment in university research programs in 2009, including 16 safety projects.

“The researchers have found potential for a GPS satellite to act as an early warning system that detects when a vehicle is about to lose control and communicate with the vehicle’s stability control systems and other safety features to prevent a rollover or other serious accident,” Ford said in a statement.

The findings will be presented next week at the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers’ International Conference on Systems, Man and Cybernetics in San Antonio, Texas, Oct. 11-14.

No word on how soon the technology will make it to future Ford vehicles.

- By: Omar Rana

Mercedes-Benz has entered the apple universe with the launch of their iPhone application, which enables Benz drivers to make payments via their iPhone. Those customers who have a loan or lease with Mercedes-Benz Financial can get full access to their accounts through the application, including account status, the ability to make a payment, and even payoff quotes on their vehicles.

For those who still only dream about life as a Benz owner/lessee, the app still provides the latest info on the company’s vehicles, and for when the time comes, locate dealers and get directions right on your phone.

Senior Marketing Manager for Mercedes-Benz Financial, Michael Kanzleiter, told Autoweek that chose to develop the iPhone app first because nearly three-quarters of Benz drivers use smart phones and of those, one third use the Apple device. Another solid third Benz’s smart phone toting customers use RIM’s BlackBerry, and Kanzleiter says that the BlackBerry app should be available within six-months.

Currently the app is only available to U.S. Customers, but is poised to soon hit Canada and Mexico. Europe is unlikely to see the app says Kanzleiter, as most European buyers arrange for monthly payments to be automatically debited from their bank accounts.

Currently Mercedes-Benz is the only automaker to offer such services, but we doubt that will be the case for very long.

- By: Stephen Calogera

Source: AutoWeek

It’s a concept inspired by fishes; no really, we’re not kidding. Last year, Nissan unveiled a new Biomimetic car robot called the BR23C concept. This year, Nissan has taken the concept to a new level with “fish-inspired technology.” The EPORO robot car concepts, which are designed to travel in a group of like-vehicles, mimic the patterns of a school of fish to avoid obstacles without bumping into each other.

The Nissan Eporo Robot Car Concepts will make their debut at the CEATEC Japan 2009 show on Oct. 6.

Hit the press release after the jump to learn more.

Nissan Eporo Car Concept:

Press Release:

Nissan EPORO Robot Car “Goes to School” on Collision-free Driving by Mimicking Fish Behavior

- Advanced Robotic Concept Debuts at CEATEC JAPAN 2009 -

YOKOHAMA (Oct. 1, 2009) – In 2008, it was the flight of the bumblebee that inspired Nissan’s Biomimetic Car Robot Drive “BR23C” concept. In 2009, fish-inspired technology takes center stage in Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.’s new Nissan “EPORO*1″ robot car concept, which is designed to travel in a group of like-vehicles, mimicking the behavioral patterns of a school of fish in avoiding obstacles without colliding with each other.

Nissan will demonstrate this breakthrough technology with a group of six EPOROs when they make their world debut at the CEATEC JAPAN 2009, October 6 – 10 at the Makuhari Messe.

CEATEC JAPAN is an annual exhibition showcasing cutting-edge electronic and information technologies. Nissan is the only auto manufacturer that has been a participant in this exhibition since 2006. In addition to displaying the futuristic EPORO, Nissan Senior Vice President Minoru Shinohara will deliver a keynote speech, titled “The Future of the Automobile with Electric Vehicles and Car Robotics Evolution,” and participate in a panel discussion on “EV leads to a society of ‘All Electrification’ and ‘All Mobilization.’” Nissan will also exhibit the new Skyline Crossover’s*2 current collision prevention technologies and provide test drives of an eco-drive diagnosis system utilizing an iPhone®*3 application.

EPORO Robot Car

So what do a bumblebee and a school of fish have in common? Both demonstrate extraordinary “anti-collision” abilities, navigating instinctively and intelligently through challenging terrain by detecting and avoiding obstacles – just as future Nissan safety vehicles may have the capability to do. But where bees – and the BR23C robot car – are likely to travel alone, the schooling behavior of fish, or a group of vehicles, presents a far greater challenge in terms of collision avoidance. In developing EPORO, three rules of fish behavior were applied to its driving control. School of fish swimming

School of fish swimming

Generically, fish recognize the surroundings based on lateral-line sense and sense of sight and form schools based on three behavior rules. A laser range finder*4 is used for lateral-line sense, while UWB*5 communications technology is utilized for the sense of sight.
Fish behavior rules

AREA 1: Collision Avoidance
Change traveling direction without colliding with other fish.

AREA 2: Traveling Side-by-Side
Travel side-by-side with other fish while keeping a certain distance between each fish (to match the speed).

AREA 3: Approaching
Gain closer proximity to other fish that are at a distance from them.

“We, in a motorized world, have a lot to learn from the behavior of a school of fish in terms of each fish’s degree of freedom and safety within a school and high migration efficiency of a school itself. In EPORO, we recreated the behavior of a school of fish making full use of cutting-edge electronic technologies,” said Toshiyuki Andou, Manager of Nissan’s Mobility Laboratory and principal engineer of the robot car project. “By sharing the surrounding information received within the group via communication, the group of EPOROs can travel safely, changing its shape as needed.”

This is the world’s first development of a robot car that can travel in a group by sharing the position and information of others within a group via communication technologies.

While Nissan’s ongoing research aims at creating collision-free vehicles based on its safety concept “Safety Shield*6,” new technologies used in EPORO also aim to improve migration efficiency of a group of vehicles and contribute to an environmentally friendly and traffic jam-free driving environment.

[Keynote Speech]
Minoru Shinohara, Senior Vice President in charge of Research & Development, will make a presentation on “The Future of the Automobile with Electric Vehicles and Car Robotics Evolution,” talking about an impact of EV on society and a safer automotive society in the future with collision-free vehicles.

Time and Date: 11:00 – 12:00, Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Venue: Convention Hall B, International Conference Hall

[Panel Discussion]
The trend toward the prevention of global warming and reduced dependence on oil are expected to create new industrial fields. Combined with new technologies, they will help contribute to a sustainable society. In this session, titled “EV Leads to a Society of ‘All Electrification’ and ‘All Mobilization,’” executives from leading companies of related industries and local government officials will discuss business opportunities and challenges for this new energy revolution.

Time and Date: 14:00-16:00, Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Venue: Convention Hall B, International Conference Hall

* For details, please refer to the official web site.

[Other Presentations and Exhibits]
Exhibition of Advanced Technologies for Collision-free Vehicles
Nissan will exhibit current cutting-edge autonomous safety technologies including Distance Control Assist System, Lane Departure Prevention and Around View Monitor with Parking Guide as well as cooperative technologies like Intelligent Transport Systems. Nissan’s latest model Skyline Crossover, which was released in Japan in July 2009, will also be displayed.

Test Drive Event for Eco Drive Check with iPhone®
In September 2009, Nissan and Yokohama City began a cooperative project called “E1 Grand-Prix,” in which drivers compete in a fuel efficiency challenge. Aiming to encourage more people to participate in the project, Nissan will conduct a trial test ride event with an eco-drive diagnosis system. Utilizing an iPhone®*3 application on the roads around Makuhari Messe, participants will drive on a two-to-three-kilometer public road course and check how close they can come to the benchmark fuel-efficiency target.

* CEATEC JAPAN: Cutting-edge IT & Electronics Comprehensive Exhibition.
Official website: http://www.ceatec.com

1. *1: EPORO: Abbreviation of EPisode O (Zero) Robot (Episode aiming to be CO2-free and accident-free).
2. *2: Skyline Crossover: Infiniti EX outside Japan.
3. *3: iPhone® is a registered trademark of Apple Inc.
4. *4: Laser range finder: Ranging sensor which measures the distance to an obstacle with reflection of laser light.
5. *5: UWB: Ultra Wide Band: Short-distance radio communications technology that measures the position of the target and the distance to it through calculation of the time lag from transmission to reflection of the pulse signal.
6. *6: Safety Shield: Nissan’s advanced and active safety concept based on the idea the vehicle that always helps protect the people from normal driving situation to after the collision. It focuses on supporting drivers not to let them face the risk.

- By: Kap Shah

Looking to find the last place you parked your car? There’s app for that. Don’t want to walk to your car and want it to drive right up to you? There will probably be an app for that someday too. But for now, if you’re looking to honk your horn and lock and unlock your car – Zipcar has a new app that will let you do just that.

The most useful thing the Zipcar iPhone app does is, helps you find Zipcar locations near you. You can then pick your choice of wheels and reserve them before you get to the Zipcar location. Besides helping you find out where you parked your Zipcar rental, the app lets you honk the horn and lock/unlock your vehicle. While that may prove useless and downright geeky – we would use our iPhone to lock and unlock every single day. Heck, we would even honk the horn with our iPhone before we got in. However, we probably wouldn’t go digging in our pockets for an iPhone when someone cuts us off.

Check out the Zipcar iPhone app here.

- By: Omar Rana

As Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood leads a two day summit on distracted driving, we thought this would be a good time to bring you news about new technology that is taking action to keep your attention on the road. Meet DriveSafe.ly – a new mobile application that reads text (SMS) messages and emails aloud in real time and automatically responds without drivers having to touch their mobile device.

DriveSafe.ly is currently available on all BlackBerry and Android models. An iPhone and a Windows based version are on the way.

Downloading the application for free allows you to hear 25 words per message in a female voice and has an optional text and e-mail auto responder. The $13.95 version allows you to hear up to 500 words per message and allows you to pick between a male and female voice. It also has the ability to auto-select by contact gender.

Check them out at DriveSafe.ly.

- By: Omar Rana

NAVTEQ, the leading global provider of digital maps, traffic and location data for in-vehicle, portable and wireless solutions, has revealed a new study that assesses consumer impact of everyday use of navigations systems. The findings focus on the impact that the addition of real-time traffic data has on the driver experience.

“Previous studies in this field focused more on “getting lost” scenarios versus the benefits to drivers of navigation system use during the course of their normal driving habits,” NAVTEQ said.

The study found that real-time traffic enabled navigations systems help drivers spend 18 percent less time driving on an average trip versus drivers without navigation. Over the course of a year, that translates to saving drivers 4 days of driving.

The study also found that real-time traffic enabled navigations systems help drivers get to their destinations faster and reduce the distance traveled. As a result, drivers get increased fuel-efficiency out of their vehicles and decrease CO2 emissions per driver by .79 metric tons, or 21% less than a driver without a navigation system.

- By: Stephen Calogera

Source: NAVTEQ (via AutoBlog)

Mini USA has introduced a new free app for Mini owners that will allow them to access roadside assistance with their BlackBerry or iPhone. The app connects Mini owners to roadside assistance with a touch of a button and provides the service provided with relevant information including the vehicle’s exact location.

The Mini Road Assist mobile application was developed by Allstate Roadside Services.

If you’re a Mini owner – you can download the app free at: http://www.allstateroadsideservices.com/mini/

Click through for the video of the app in action and the press release.

Press Release:

MINI IS THE FIRST MANUFACTURER TO LAUNCH A MOBILE APPLICATION FOR ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE
MINI owners can now access roadside assistance with the touch of an icon

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – August 20, 2008… MINI USA announced today the introduction of a free app to MINI owners that allows access to roadside assistance with the touch of an icon. The new MINI Road Assist mobile application was developed by Allstate Roadside Services and is available for iPhone and select BlackBerry users. The app connects users to roadside assistance while automatically supplying the service provider with all relevant information about the vehicle, most importantly, its exact location.

“MINI owners appreciate technological innovation and will welcome the additional peace of mind that comes from having fast, easy access to the free roadside services provided during their warranty period,” said Jim McDowell, Vice President MINI USA.

Whether it’s for a battery boost or to replace a flat tire, the new MINI Road Assist app for iPhone and BlackBerry users puts control in the driver’s hand – and handset. Perhaps the best part, it eliminates the need for lengthy conversations about vital vehicle information and location and jumps directly to sending help after a short call.

To begin using the app, MINI owners will need to download it to their iPhone or compatible BlackBerry device. Step-by-step instructions guide users to enter their Vehicle I.D. (VIN), name, address and other details – even uploading a photo of their MINI. When a MINI owner needs roadside help, they simply launch the app, select their service need and press the “call” button. Their user information, vehicle location and service need are all transmitted automatically to customer service representatives – saving valuable time to get them motoring again as quickly as possible.

This feature utilizes global positioning system (GPS) technology, pinpointing a caller’s location to help customer service representatives identify the nearest available service provider and communicating their exact location. Once service is confirmed, the mobile app delivers the driver with the service provider’s name, an estimated time of arrival and an automated service follows up to ensure the issue has been resolved.

“As the exclusive provider of roadside assistance for MINI USA and a number of other prestigious auto brands, Allstate Roadside Services is proud to launch this application designed to enhance the MINI owner’s experience,” said Patrick O’Brien, president of Allstate Roadside Services.

It’s free to MINI owners and can be downloaded here: HYPERLINK “http://www.allstateroadsideservices.com/mini/” http://www.allstateroadsideservices.com/mini/

To access a video of the app and how it works, click the link:
HYPERLINK “http://www.youtube.com/miniusanews” http://www.youtube.com/miniusanews

All MINI USA owners have access to roadside assistance free of charge as long as the vehicle remains under warranty. Customers whose warranty has expired may still download the free app and use the roadside assistance for a fee set by the service provider.

- By: Omar Rana

While you won’t be able to hear the new Ferrari 458 Italia rev its engine until next month at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, you can satisfy your needs by downloading official 458 Italia ringtones that make the sound of the supercar every time you get a text or a phone call on your iPhone or BlackBerry.

The minisite features ringtones that make the noise of the Ferrari 458 Italia overtaking and accelerating or sounds of the supercar on the track, on board or off the mark.

You can also grab official iPhone-size Ferrari 458 Italia wallpapers while you’re there.

Click here to visit the Ferrari 458 Italia’s ministie.

2011 Ferrari 458 Italia:

- By: Omar Rana

Source: CNET

Need to check the battery level of your electric-vehicle? There’s an app for that. Need to see how hot is inside your vehicle so you can turn on the AC before you get inside? Well, there’s an app for that too – thanks to Nissan. Along with its new electric-vehicle platform announced yesterday, Nissan demonstrated a new iPhone app at its facility in Yokosuka, Japan that links to its electric-car’s IT system to check the charge status of the on-board lithium-ion battery.

Using the app, owners will be able to dial into their electric car and monitor the charging of their cars. The app could prove useful when electric-cars are parked at public charging stations and owners want to check in and see what the status of their battery-level is before getting back to driving.

Along with monitoring battery levels, owners will be able to see other detailed information such as the remaining time required for the full charge and the approximate cost they will have to pay at a charging station.

Other features include checking the interior temperature of the car and allowing users to turn on the air conditioning system to cool the inside before they get in.

Nissan’s new electric-car is scheduled to debut on August 2nd.

Nissan EV Versa Prototype (EV-11):

- By: Kap Shah

Source: PCWorld (via AllCarsElectric)