Mercedes-Benz Rolls Out Remote iPhone Control On Its Entire Fleet
The future is now at Mercedes-Benz! Thanks to a partnership with Hughes Telematics and its mbrace service, all new Mercedes Models are going to integrate a remote control system that pairs with your iPhone (or BlackBerry).
The system put together by mbrace and Mercedes Benz is really impressive, the new on-board computer integrates your Smart Phone with your car by letting you lock/unlock your car at distance or find it on a map using the localisation feature. It also allows you to get in touch with the closest dealer in case you would need it.
Furthermore the vehicle navigation system will include, on top of traditional guidance: route assistance, the capacity to download up-to-date point of interest information or even location-based traffic and weather.
Last but not least the onboard computer will integrates "Automatic Collision Notification system", here is the description of the system:
In the event your airbags deploy or your seatbelt Emergency Tensioning Devices are activated, Automatic Collision Notification will immediately relay your location to the Mercedes-Benz Emergency Response Center and attempt to establish voice communication between you and an mbrace Customer Specialist. If you request assistance or are unable to respond, the Customer Specialist will notify the appropriate emergency service provider and stay on the line until help arrives.
It also features a stolen vehicle location assistance, "roadside assistance connection" or "Automatic alarm notification".
The system is being rolled out in every new model and will be completely available by november 2010. It's also retro-compatible with many already existing models. You can also already download their iPhone application on the App Store.
This is getting closer and closer to what I've seen in the Fifth Element, very neat isn't it?
[via Mercedes-Benz USA]