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Garmin's latest GPS navigator has a backup camera for avoiding fender benders
Here's a nice feature from the sometimes staid world of in-car GPS devices. The latest from Garmin features a wireless backup camera that'll show what's behind you on its 7-inch display. The ruggedized camera plugs into your vehicle's rearview lights for power, switching on when they do, so you can toggle between that image and the standard navigation screen. The Nüvi 2798LMT package runs $400 and includes the standard Garmin features like voice-activated navigation and free traffic reports and maps.
Google to bring Android to cars with a little help from Audi, GM, Hyundai, Honda and NVIDIA
Already with more than one billion activations on mobile and media devices, Google's Android is set to make an impact on another major industry: automobiles. Following rumors that the search giant was working with Audi to embed its open-source OS inside its cars, the company confirmed today it has teamed up with five automotive and technology companies (with more expected in the future) to form the Open Automotive Alliance. Alongside Audi, Google will be joined by General Motors, Hyundai, Honda and chip-maker NVIDIA, which will all work to bring Android to cars starting this year. The coalition aims to create a common platform that will drive innovation and in turn make cars "safer and more intuitive for everyone." With Apple and Nokia already pushing hard to bring their own software to cars -- Apple already counts Honda, GM and Hyundai as Siri Eyes Free partners -- 2014 could be a big year for connected cars.
Chevrolet debuts Corvette Performance Data Recorder: records audio, video and overlays telemetry (hands-on)
Chevrolet spent some time before CES showing us how it plans to offer Corvette owners a new instrument to hone their track skills: the Performance Data Recorder (PDR). The system, which was designed with British auto engineering company Cosworth, will begin shipping in 2015 Corvette Stingrays as a factory add-on. In its simplest form, the PDR captures video with user-selectable levels of vehicle telemetry overlaid on the 720p output. In its most complex, the session data can be dissected by the included Cosworth Toolbox software on your PC. The PDR consists of three main bits: audio and video recording, telemetry capture and an SD card slot in the glove compartment where the data is sorted. The driver then selects one of four modes: Track, Sport, Touring or Performance and with the click of a button on the car's 8-inch display, sets the start/finish line and begins recording the lapping session. Once started, the system starts grabbing info from a dedicated GPS receiver that captures data points five times more often than a normal GPS, a 720p camera mounted at the top of the windscreen begins recording and then hooks into the car's Controller Area Network (CAN) for access to all the vehicle's performance data. During our time in the driver's seat, we used Track mode as it records the most metrics including speed, throttle position, brake force, rpm, g-force, lap time and even a location-based map. Once you come to a stop, you can quickly replay the video in-car or take it offline and examine every nuance of the drive on your desktop.
New BMW M4, Ford Mustang get their first drive in Gran Turismo and Need for Speed
One great thing about racing games is that they give you a way to drive new and fancy cars anytime without having to sell a limb or two. The recently released Gran Turismo 6 and EA's Need for Speed: Rivals, for instance, now puts you in the driver's seats of the pricey 2014 BMW M4 Coupé and the 2015 Ford Mustang muscle car, respectively. While both rides aren't slated for release until 2014, the games' developers worked closely with the automakers to make the digital counterparts as detailed as possible. Both developers enjoyed early access to the cars prior to their unveiling, with EA taking the step of recording the new Mustang GT's V-8 engine for its game. As a huge plus, they're available as free digital downloads, so you don't need to tap into those emergency holiday funds just to take these for a virtual test drive long before they pop up at local dealerships.
Honda introduces 2014 Civic with iPhone-compatible touchscreen in the dash
Earlier today, Honda held a Google Hangout to announce a new "Display Audio" interface that features a 7-inch high-resolution touchscreen in the dash of the new 2014 Honda Civic and 2015 Honda Fit that can connect to an iPhone and access online content. The 7-inch touchscreen in the vehicles' dash will allow drivers and passengers to touch, swipe and pinch their way through maps, contacts and media. To go along with the Display Audio interface, Honda is announcing four new iOS apps that allow iPhone owners to interact with the new system and provide additional functionality. HondaLink Connect (free). With the HondaLink Connect App, you can search for point-of-interest locations; save favorite destinations; view weather forecasts; stay in touch with key maintenance information about your vehicle, including notifications on your next required service; easily set up service appointments with a quick dial to your servicing dealer; receive useful Feature Guide and Quick Tip messages about your car; contact roadside assistance agents when needed; and more. HondaLink Navigation (US$59.99). Download the HondaLink Navigation App onto your phone and stream an entire navigation system into your Honda dashboard display. Receive all the convenience of in-vehicle maps and routing, including continuously updated traffic information for freeways, highways and major surface streets. Search for points of interest or specific addresses, and easily route to your selected destination. Use the steering wheel controls to interact with the HondaLink Navigation app while driving. Includes free annual map updates. HondaLink Aha (free). The HondaLink Aha app provides convenient access to cloud-based services right through the vehicle dashboard, allowing you to leave your phone tucked away while driving. With this app, HondaLink and Aha help turn your favorite internet content into personalized, on-demand radio stations. HondaLink App Launcher – (free). The HondaLink App Launcher is your guide to easily find apps that are compatible with the HondaLink Next Generation platform. Use it to find other HondaLink Next Generation apps such as HondaLink Connect, HondaLink Aha and HondaLink Navigation. The App Launcher brings these apps into your vehicle dashboard, transforming your in-vehicle experience. The 2014 Honda Civic and 2015 Honda Fit are also the first Hondas with Siri Eyes Free built-in.
Volkswagen unveils MARTA, an iOS auto repair app
While many augmented reality applications are largely consumer-facing, Volkswagen is instead empowering its technicians with an AR-centric tool to expedite repair and service. Using an iOS app named MARTA (Mobile Augmented Reality Technical Assistance), workers servicing VW's futuristic new XL1 concept car can see detailed instructions as well as real-time labels for specific vehicle parts. Technicians can see virtual tools applied to various vehicle parts to ensure the job is being done correctly, and even see what new parts would look like when applied to the car, which could come in handy if you're looking to customize your ride. Of course, the app still appears to be in its early stages, and given that it's designed around a car that's not officially available to the public, it may be a while before your local VW dealer adds an iPad to their toolbox. [via MacRumors]
BlackBerry introduces OTA service for automakers, brings push expertise to vehicle telematics
With more and more vehicles featuring telematics and built-in wireless connectivity, it's no surprise that we're seeing a new ecosystem emerge around the technology, with M2M specialists providing everything from radios to apps. BlackBerry wants a piece of this pie, and today at the Telematics Detroit conference, the company is showing a new OTA (Over The Air) service for automakers. The solution lets car manufacturers manage and deploy software updates to vehicles in the field and takes advantage of BlackBerry's push expertise and secure infrastructure. Other remote capabilities include installing apps on a car's infotainment system and getting status information on vehicle components. Let's just hope there's no service outage in the middle of that ECU update, okay? PR after the break.
Terrafugia's Transition aircraft not likely to see production this year
Terrafugia's Transition flying car (or driveable plane) has stayed out of the spotlight since we caught a glimpse of it last year, but AOL Autos recently checked-in with the daring manufacturer to gauge its progress. Sure, the prototype has already scored a VIN from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and an N-number from the Federal Aviation Administration, but it turns out the land /air hybrid is still awaiting complete certification by the NHTSA. Production dates won't be announced until the craft has been rubber-stamped by Uncle Sam, and that isn't expected to occur within the next 12 months. For now, suppliers are being lined up, and it's very likely that another prototype will be fashioned before it hits the assembly line. You might not be able to sit inside your very own Transition soon, but you will be able to see the first model on display at Cape Cod's Heritage Museum this summer.
Tesla Model S now eligible for non-traditional lease with resale guarantee
Just as Tesla isn't in the business of making average cars, it's just introduced a leasing program for the Model S sedan that's not entirely run-of-the-mill. Unique to the company's 66-month lease program, you'll find the option of selling the Model S after 36 months at a price that's pegged to the residual value of the Mercedes S Class. While that may sound all fine and dandy, be warned, if you couldn't afford a Model S before, there's a good chance it's still be a wee bit out of your grasp. The Tesla Model S 85kWh edition runs $1,199 per month, which then becomes slightly more palatable once tax credits are factored in. On the average, individuals can expect to pay between $732 to $940 per month for the privilege of leasing a Model S. Meanwhile, business users stand to benefit even more, who can use tax credits to bring the overall cost down to $505 per month. Feel free to hit up the source links if you now think Motor Trend's 2013 Car of the Year is an expense you can stomach, but for the rest of us, we'll just keep dreaming.
Researchers testing frugal autonomous car system, aim for $150 price tag (video)
Google certainly has pockets deep enough to trick out self-driving cars with any kind of pricey gear, but researchers at the University of Oxford have begun testing a solution that aims to keep things affordable. Currently, the system leverages an array of low-profile stereo cameras and lasers that rings up at about £5,000 (approximately $7,750), but the next goal is to knock the price down to £500, and eventually to a cool £100 (roughly $150). "Really, we do need to solve the engineering challenges of not relying on expensive sensors, but relying on cheap sensors," Professor Paul Newman told the Telegraph. "But doing some really smart things with those cheap sensor feeds." Rather than a vehicle that acts as a chauffeur at all times, Newman's vision for the modified Nissan Leaf, dubbed RobotCar, is for it to take control on select occasions. While drivers go about their commute, the system composes a 3D map of the car's environs and commits it to memory. When the auto identifies a familiar setting and feels confident about its ability to take the reigns, it could let the driver know it's ready to assume control. Right now, the automobile's been tested on private roads, but the team behind it is working with the UK's Department of Transportation to roll it onto public streets. Head past the jump for a glimpse of RobotCar in action.
Chevrolet Sonic, Spark first cars to get Siri Eyes Free integration
GM has announced that the Chevrolet Sonic and Spark will offer Siri Eyes Free integration in March of 2013. This makes good on a promise GM made in June 2012 to deliver the service to the cars within "the next 12 months." Eyes Free will be distributed via an upgrade to existing MyLink radios in the Sonic and Spark. Once the cars have the upgrade, GM says drivers will be able to: Make voice-activated, hands-free calls to Contacts on their iPhone. Play songs in their iTunes libraries, and even switch music sources automatically from AM/FM/XM radio to iPod mode. Listen to, compose and send an iMessage or text message to a phone number or anyone in saved Contacts. Access Calendar and add appointments. Minimize distraction even more by keeping the screen of the iPhone from lighting up even when Siri answers simple questions such as game scores or the dates of national holidays. The Siri Eyes Free feature of iOS 6 was first announced at WWDC last year. It allows drivers to safely interact with features of their iPhones via voice control without taking your eyes off the road. Besides GM, both Honda and Hyundai have promised to add Siri Eyes Free integration to their cars in 2013.
RetroSound's Bluetooth-enabled in-dash radio for classic cars now up for grabs
Sure, slamming an 8-track into your vintage car may give it the look and feel of yesteryear, but it'd also bring the frustration inherent in outdated media. Cue RetroSound's freshly-available Model Two: an in-dash radio that pairs classic looks with modern features. According to Retro Sound, the Model Two is the only radio made specifically for vintage autos that carries the Made-for-iPod designation, and the only one in its class packing hands-free call features as well. Using Bluetooth, the hardware can connect to iOS and Android devices and pipes audio from any app through a car's sound system. If you prefer auxiliary input or USB connections, the kit has those covered too. As for hooking up to sound systems, the rig packs front and rear RCA pre-outs, separate subwoofer outputs and a baked-in 25-watt x 4 channel RMS power amplifier, to boot. Retro Sound promises the rig mounts into "virtually any classic vehicle," and even carries a bevy of bezels, faceplates and knobs to make sure it the piece of tech mimics an original factory radio. The kit's 32,000-color LCD back-lit display might give passengers a hint it's from this century, but with a $400 price tag, such bells and whistles are welcome. For a look at the faceplate and knob combos, jab the bordering source link.
Pioneer shows off 2013 head unit line, rocks our minds with bass (video)
Pioneer launched a stack of new sets this year for CES as well as an iPhone 5 connectivity solution for those left hanging since upgrading to Apple's latest phone. We've seen the head unit specs so we thought we'd give you a pic tour of the newest devices as well as a short clip of us sitting in the custom Lexus CT 200h playing with its ridiculous stereo. The centerpiece of the system is the AVH-X8500BHS receiver (above) and a custom Steampunk-inspired sub enclosure loaded with six PRS D800 amps. End result? hair-moving, skin-creeping bass and volume. We're digging seeing all the AppRadio expansion to Pioneers's line and can only hope we see prices drop -- and even become pack-ins -- for the now rather expensive connectivity cables.
iHeartRadio coming to Chrysler and GM autos, iHeartAuto for aftermarket devices launches
iHeartRadio isn't limiting its CES announcements to mobile and PC wares. The internet streaming service is heading to Chrysler Uconnect and 2014 GM infotainment systems. Soon, the company's library of 1,500 channels will be available in-dash with mobile app compatibility for further fine-tuning with Chrysler's Uconnect Access software on Android and iOS handsets. In addition to the manufacturer news, iHeartRadio has also teamed up with Clear Channel Media and Entertainment to bring the iHeartAuto app for aftermarket vehicle gadgets. This software will allow standardized tools for devs and easy implementation for manufacturers. As of today, support for Clarion Smart Access, Pioneer's AppRadio platform and Kenwood's DNN990HD receiver is now available. For a bit more info on both of the happenings, take a look at the full PR that resides below.
Delphi and Verizon launch new connectivity system: track and monitor your vehicle through your smartphone
Delphi has allied itself with Verizon to launch a new Vehicle Diagnostics service. It works through a cloud system that connects your four-wheeler to your smartphone (or internet browser), showing precisely where your car is, as well as options to secure it and check its vitals. Delphi promises the new system will work in most vehicles sold in the US since 1996 and users can pick up alerts for driving and vehicle performance issues, as well as setup geo-fences to monitor if your car goes outside specified zones. Connecting your phone to the car is done through Bluetooth and adds access to key fob commands including remote door control. The compatible smartphone app will arrive on devices running Android 2.2 or later and iOS 5.0 onwards, while the Delphi Web portal works on Internet Explorer 7, with Firefox, Chrome and Safari versions still in the works. Follow all the latest CES 2013 news at our event hub.
Google and Kia partnership will bring Google Maps and Places to new cars this year
Korean car-maker Kia is set to give its UVO eServices telematics a huge shot in the arm, teaming up with Google to offer its next-generation navigation system. The new setup will debut in this year's Sorento CUV, which is scheduled to arrive in Q1. Kia's updated (once Microsoft-assisted) UVO system will allow users to send directions and locales from their smartphone (or the web) to your new ride. Baked-in Google Places will also inform you of your nearest dealership (even when you're already in that new Kia) while existing music management, hands-free features and improved voice recognition will all be wrapped into the same interface. Kia explains it all in the full press release after the break.
Continental gets automated vehicle approved for Nevada roads
Google isn't the only outfit puttering around Nevada roads with its hands off the wheel -- German automotive supplier Continental has the state's approval to let the computer take the wheel, too. Earlier this week the Silver State signed off on the German company's safety, employee training, system function and accident reporting plans, granting Continental a testing license and adorning its vehicles with red license plates. It's the very same treatment Mountain View received back in May -- but Continental's cars aren't exactly direct competitors to Google's fare. The company's "highly automated vehicles" are more of an advanced cruise control system than a self driving car -- capable of navigating stop and go traffic on a freeway, for example, but still requiring the driver to take control as their exit draws near. Continental sees the partially autonomous vehicle as a stepping stone to fully automated cars, and plans to offer the partial solution between 2016 and 2020, switching up to fully automated driving systems by 2025. The company hopes refine its testing to meet this goal in Nevada, putting its stereo camera and sensor equipped vehicle through freeway and rush-hour trials in real traffic. The company's ultimate goal, of course, is to eliminate accidents and fatalities on the road. Check out the firm's official PR after the break.
Tesla's Supercharger network goes live in six California towns, encourages EV road trips
Time to go on that great California road trip, Tesla owners; the EV maker has just launched new Superchargers in six Golden State locations: Folsom Premium Outlets, Harris Ranch in Coalinga, Gilroy Premium Outlets, Barstow, Tejon Ranch in Lebec and Hawthorne. They appear to be strategically placed to ease journeys between San Francisco, Los Angeles, Lake Tahoe and Las Vegas, NV. The solar powered stations from SolarCity are designed just for Tesla vehicles, with Model S sedans being able to charge for free. According to Tesla, a Model S can be charged in about 30 minutes if you want to get around three hours of 60mph driving out of it, so you'll have plenty of time to grab an In-N-Out Double Double on your way to Sin City.
Hyundai to wire cars with Broadcom ethernet tech, put infotainment and security systems on one network
Cars wired with ethernet may conjure thoughts of roving internet hotspots, but that's not what Hyundai and Broadcom have in mind in this case. Traditionally, infotainment consoles, safety systems and the like are built on multiple in-car networks, but the duo will rig vehicles with modified ethernet cables to unify some of the disparate systems on a single network. Dubbed BroadR-Reach, the tech uses a single pair of unshielded wires to offer 100Mbps connection speeds and could scale up to 1Gbps. Though Hyundai and other automakers joined with Broadcom's standards group for the technology last year, the firm is now the second car manufacturer to pledge that its autos will get the tech. As of now, there's still no word on which models will be lined with ethernet or when they'll roll off assembly lines.
More car companies link iPhone nav apps to dashboard displays
Rather than offer proprietary in-car navigation solutions, auto makers Ford and Chevy are looking to smartphones for their driver's navigation needs, says a report in the New York Times. Ford is working with Telenav on a solution that will let smartphone owners connect their phone-based maps application to car's in-dash display. The Ford solution is powered by Ford's Sync system and requires the use of the CarConnect app, which costs US$25 a year. An Android-compatible version is available now, while an iPhone version is in the works. Chevy is offering a similar system in its 2013 Spark model. Spark owners can take advantage to the Chevy's MyLink system and the $50 BringGo app which sends navigation data to car's dash.
