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Porsche Cayenne cellphone speeds right by the trademark police
We've seen automakers galore slap their logos and color schemes onto modern day handsets, but what would the world of exotic mobiles be without a Porsche in the mix? Apparently, a Hong Kong manufacturer has taken the duty upon itself, as the presumably unlicensed Porsche Cayenne cellphone is now showing up on overseas streets with a full automotive makeover. Externally, you'll find smooth lines and Porsche-brandings, while a two-megapixel camera graces the hood and a color screen (shown after the jump) sits atop the guages. Although actual specs can't be confirmed, we're hearing that it purs along on dualband GSM, supports microSD flash cards, and plays nice with MP3 / MP4 files. Of course, we aren't expecting the quality of this sub-$200 handset to even come close to that found on your average Porsche, but we'd suggest snapping one up on the double before impending legal action dries up the supply. [Via Textually]
Toyota planning its own in-car operating system
We've certainly seen all sorts of exotic vehicles run on Windows XP before (so to speak), but Toyota execs are mulling the idea of crafting its own in-car operating system in order to keep that competitive edge alive. Currently, OS' are "built from scratch" for every new vehicle model, but the automaker is realizing that an in-house squad focused on delivering a single system to run behind the scenes could not only dramatically cut R&D costs, but also " boost efficiency and speed up development." Although Toyota wouldn't comment directly, it is presumed that the project is an integral part of the new VI (Value Innovation) initiative, in which the firm is hoping to consolidate the amount of parts used in their vehicle. Still, we aren't going to see a Toyota-branded OS until "closer to 2015," so we hope fully expect an auto-pilot feature to be in there somewhere.[Via Wired]
A123Systems crafts long-lasting automotive Li-ion for electric cars
A123Systems most certainly won't go down as the first startup to crank out what could be the batteries that reside in our future electric vehicles, but it seems to be edging ever closer to landing a full-blown contract with General Motors. GM has already selected the Massachusetts-based company to "develop batteries that might be used for the Saturn Vue," and it is pondering the idea of awarding the battery maker a similar deal for the Volt. The firm is garnering a good bit of praise for its "long-lasting, safe rechargeable Li-ions" that could potentially power the all-electric / hybrid vehicles of the future, but rather than relying on "cobalt oxide, it used iron phosphate assembled in a novel, nano-structure." Interestingly, the outfit's current offerings started out with the idea of utilizing self-assembling cells, but after they proved "intractably hard to develop," the idea was scraped in favor of the less pricey Li-ion approach. Still, don't expect these guys to run the table on automotive contracts, as there's already quite a few formidable opponents on the loose.
Girasole electric car packs horse hoof warnings
Apparently, we've used that simple "beep" to alert pedestrians when a vehicle is reversing or otherwise coming up on someone long enough, as Yoshio Takaoka, in collaboration with Italy's Start Lab SAP, has crafted a fully functional electric car that packs built-in "horse hoof" sound effects. The Girasole can be fully charged from a home AC outlet for around $1 per "tank," and can then travel nearly 75 miles at a top speed of around 45-miles per hour, but the standout feature on this otherwise uninspiring (albeit very green) automobile is the entirely bizarre "clip-clop" horn that "alerts pedestrians and other drivers" that the car is near. While we're not entirely sure why a next-generation vehicle is throwing back to the days of (way) old when literal horsepower was the main means of transportation, we'll give due props for the ingenuity, but equipping our vehicle with equestrian noises is likely the least of the worries here in the US.[Via AutoblogGreen]
Trade your car for a PS3
Apparently, the offers to trade PS3s for Wiis on Cragislist were just the tip of the iceberg. This morning, tipster David Phillips pointed us to this interesting Craigslist listing offering a PS3 and two games for "a car or parts and labor on my jeep." A quick search finds a couple of other listings offering up a PS3 in exchange for a new ride or money to fix an existing ride. There are also some postings going the other way, offering a 1987 Volkswagon Golf, a 1991 Mazda Protege and even a 1968 Ford Falcon in exchange for a PS3 or other electronics. Apparently entertainment is more important than mobility for some traders, which got us wondering what else people would be willing to give up for Sony's super-system. Food? Shelter? Warmth? First born? What would you give up for a PS3?
Microsoft, Ford bringing "Sync" to cars this year
As expected, it's been announced today that the Blue&Me system originally debuted with Fiat in Europe is finally coming to the States by way of Ford, but not without a name change: "Sync." The setup offers integration with Bluetooth-enabled phones (read: virtually all phones these days) and music players via both A2DP / AVRCP and USB 2.0 connections -- and yes, the iPod's right there at the top of the compatibility list, despite Microsoft's involvement. Other nifty (and potentially driver-distracting) features include the ability to have text messages read aloud, voice recognition for control of both phone and music functions, and phonebook transfer. Best of all, the system's upgradeable -- primarily for compatibility with future players, but it also leaves the door open for additional functionality down the road. Look for the Sync to get synced on twelve model year 2008 Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles with availability starting later this year.
Engineuity developing hydrogen-creating, emission free vehicle
Just in case there weren't enough alternate fuel developments going on around the world, it looks like we've got yet another vying for business over in Israel. Engineuity, a company started by Amnon Yogev, has reportedly developed a method for vehicles to "produce their own fuel" using metals such as magnesium and aluminum to create hydrogen and steam. Similar to a solar-powered "zinc-to-hydrogen" approach that gained attention in 2005, this method utilizes a "long metal coil" which would be inserted into a metal-steam combustor that stands to "separate hydrogen out of heated water." After intense heating, the metal atoms would purportedly bond to the oxygen from the water, creating metal oxide; the result would free up hydrogen molecules to be sent to the engine alongside the steam to provide the juice. The firm also insinuates that "refueling" the vehicle would be "remarkably simply," and construction could be completed on current production lines without requiring entirely new infrastructures. According to Yogev, the "running cost of the system should be equal to that of conventional cars today," and hopes to have a full scale prototype ready to rumble in "around three years."[Thanks, Mike]
BMW teaser unveils enigmatic do-it-all device
BMW's fairly well known for its nifty in-car implementation of technology, and although certain aspects have received their fair share of criticism, the firm has something brewing that could cause quite a stir -- of course, that would require us to actually know what it is. A snazzy flash website unveils a sleek, continually morphing device that touts the ability to play MP3s, DVDs and CDs, has USB and Bluetooth connectivity options, can recognize voice commands, and has a 65,000 color LCD to boot; but in the end, we're still left to wonder how it relates to the company's vehicles (if at all). Sure, we've seen BMW-branded watches and the like, but it's not exactly usual to see an automaker producing multifaceted consumer electronics, and while it may end up just another technological aspect of a car, it looks like something you just might tote around. Thankfully, we shouldn't have to wait too awfully long until the veil is removed, as it should get official in just a few weeks, but until then, be sure to click on through for a few more glamor shots.[Via Autoblog]
Suzuki's Xbox 360-infused SXBox concept vehicle
It's not often that companies hit it big twice in a row, but we'd say Suzuki's SXBox concept car is just as nifty (albeit in a very different manner) as its previous carpet-ready ride, the MIO. Although this is likely a case of great engineering that'll never see any real-world play, Suzuki is still tooting its own horn at the 2006 San Diego International Auto Show by letting gamers gaze at the entertainment mecca that is the SXBox. Part of the "Suzuki LIVE Series" of concept cars marketed at various realms of "enthusiasts," this whip is based on the 2007 SX4 and features a dashboard-integrated Xbox 360, which is coupled with a "close proximity digital projection system to display games or watch a HD DVD movie on the interior of the vehicle's retractable hood." Additionally, a second console is connected to two separate LCDs in the seat backs for folks riding in the rear, and there's even a retractable 30-inch rear projection screen in the trunk for the ultimate tailgating experience. And leave it to Suzuki to remember the details, as you'll also find force-feedback front seats, four wireless controllers, matching "green" color accents, a bevy of recessed LEDs, full surround sound rig, and even a steering wheel-mounted control for the haphazard driver. As expected, this ride isn't even close to being mass produced, but if you seriously need all that gaming while in the comfortable confines of a vehicle, you most certainly have formidable alternatives. You know the drill, click on through for a few more pics.[Via Xbox360Fanboy]
DrewTech rolls out Linux-powered DashDAQ data acquisition system
With Linux hitting it big on everything from the PSP to Monster's network media and automation devices, it's no surprise to see the OS taking charge on DrewTech's DashDAQ. The portable conglomerate is a "cross between a data acquisition system, diagnostic tool, automotive gauge display, and a handheld computer," and is targeting automotive gurus who crave performance monitoring, data charts, and customized gauges / diagnostic meters. With a bit of 1337 programming skills, the device can display nearly anything you desire, and can double as a navigation monitor, CarPC display, or snazzy tachometer to boot. It boasts a 4-inch QWVGA touchscreen, adjustable backlight, 200MHz ARM processor, 64MB of internal RAM, MMC / SD card slots, USB 2.0 connectivity, a serial port, and support for optional Bluetooth / WiFi add-ons. It also plays nice with OBDII, EGT, O2, and a plethora of other vehicle sensors. If this hodgepodge has you in a tizzy, but the gearhead in you longs for "one more toy," be sure to peep the video of DrewTech's multi-purpose device in action to determine if its worth the $595 pricetag.
Integrated Mobile Electronics launches universal iMe Dock for your car
If you're genuinely frustrated with fuzzy (and "dangerous") FM transmitter results, and aren't exactly keen on wiring up a separate connection for each DAP you own, Integrated Mobile Electronics has your solution. In a presumed attempt to alleviate the frustration of priopritary DAP-to-automobile liaisons (and grab the entire market's attention), the startup has unveiled the iMe in-car docking station. The device, like most other hardwired options, will require a good bit of DIY handiwork (and Excedrin Migraine pills), but will apparently channel audio to your sound system and even video to your LCD-equipped whip. The package will reportedly support the Apple iPod / nano, Microsoft Zune (including the unannounced "80GB" version), Creative Zen Vision:M, SanDisk Sansa, and iRiver Clix right out-of-the-box, and even touts the ability to charge your device while docked. While it's being marketed as an end-all solution to your in-car docking station needs, these all-in-one contraptions should certainly be approached with caution -- and while there's no info on pricing or availability, you can see its potential for yourself at the SEMA expo this month.
Gold Kiwi's toy car GPS receiver with Bluetooth
Sure, a GPS receiver designed for in-car use is far from unique, but an actual geo-locator disguised as a car is an entirely different animal. AVing was able to sneak a peek at a new SiRF Star III GPS receiver that throws a unique twist on your more vanilla alternatives. Apparently manufactured under a "Gold Kiwi" moniker, the tiny vehicle also sports Bluetooth capability, but a built-in sound system and handsfree support couldn't be verified. While we have our doubts about these undercover receivers wheeling their way to American shores, you might want to double-check the undercarriage of the next Hot Wheels toy you buy -- unless, of course, you don't mind the far-fetched possibility of bringing an unsolicited tracking device into your home.[Via NaviGadget]
MIT gasoline / ethanol engine to up gas mileage by "30 percent"
Anyone with enough coin to not concern themselves with fuel prices anyway can throw down $100,000 (or more) for an uber-green Tesla Roadster, or you can tack a few extra grand onto the price of your next vehicle to ensure it has some sort of hybrid engine underneath the hood, but MIT researchers are developing yet another alternative to our oh-so-troublesome fuel dilemma without looking to fuel cells. The gasoline / ethanol prototype is about "half the size" of a conventional gas engine, and would only add "about $1,000" to the price of a vehicle -- much less than current battery / gasoline options. The gasoline and ethanol are housed in separate tanks, with the ethanol "suppressing the spontaneous combustion inside the cylinder," allowing for a "higher compression ratio" and a "30 percent increase" in overall gas mileage. Ford is currently testing the system with Ethanol Boosting Systems, and while we're unsure how these engineering minds will solve the problem of double-pumping each time you need a fill up, they're reportedly working hard to "minimize any inconvenience to the driver."
