The race for "Infotainment" car systems hots up - Net.Matters - January 2010

Car manufacturers have been working with both Microsoft and Google to develop in-car internet capability.  As reported in TimesOnline, manufacturers are looking at ways of increasing the gadgetry in their vehicles, arguing that the iPhone generation expect instant access to the internet wherever they may be.

Both Ford and Audi are planning to launch their technology within the next 2 years - Ford has worked with Microsoft to develop MyFord Touch - an 8 inch LCD touchscreen giving drivers access to the internet, emails and Skype.  Access is either via the driver's 3G mobile (Bluetooth) or a mobile modem - a dongle.  As long as the vehicle is stationary, the driver can access the internet via the touchscreen or by connecting a keyboard.  The in-built browser will shut down as soon as the car starts moving.  The Focus is the car Ford has chosen to launch the MyFord Touch product - and will be available some time in 2011.

Audi has developed its own technology in conjunction with Google and say they will have their product available as early as this summer, fitted in their new A8 saloon.  Drivers will be able to access the web and use the Google browser - VOIP will come later.  Google Earth, giving a 3-d view of a destination will also be available.  Audi's device will also be an 8 inch touchscreen enabling drivers to use their fingers to write an address to which the unit will then return a map location and directions.  Audi's chief engineer for multimedia interface systems, Mathias Halliger: “Customers are expecting more and more, especially business people who expect to find in the car what they find in their smartphone.  We should give them the same or a better experience."

Although manufacturers are keen to stress the safety mechanisms put in place to avoid burdening the driver with in-car distractions, road safety campaigners have voiced their concern.   UK statistics for 2008 released by the Department of Transport show distractions accounted for 84 road deaths, 429 serious injuries and 4,255 slight injuries.  As reported in the New York Times, professor of technology and policy at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Nicholas A. Ashford said “This is irresponsible at best and pernicious at worst.  Unfortunately and sadly, it is a continuation of the pursuit of profit over safety - for both drivers and pedestrians.”

The law will also need to change to reflect the new technology - at present the law is specific to handheld devices and as a consequence does not apply to in-car internet systems built into the dashboard.