2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

Mercedes-Benz, together with Hughes Telematics, is launching a new feature today that will allow owners of its vehicles access to a 18 different services via a nifty telematics system.

Called “mbrace”, the new system offers everything from a vehicle locator for crowded car parks, somebody to direct you if you get lost or even the ability to order online–all whilst sitting in the driver’s seat.

Similar to Ford’s Sync system and GM’s OnStar, mbrace also enables pairing of smart phones like iPhones and BlackBerrys to the car’s electronic interface. Drivers can then use their phones to lock or unlock their cars remotely.

Other services include automatic emergency service notification in case the car is stolen or in an accident, a vehicle health check function that goes live to the nearest dealership, real-time weather and traffic reports, and even a concierge service that gets you 24/7 access to a customer-service rep who will help you make dinner reservations, book a hotel or order a flight.

The mbrace system is being offered as standard equipment on all Mercedes-Benz models except the GLK, C-Class, SLK and the new E-Class Coupe, where it is being offered as an option. A subscription to the service is free for the six months, after which it will cost $280 a year. An additional $20 per month is needed for the concierge service.

What makes mbrace really stand out is that it is fully upgradable, with new applications easily installed as they are developed. Furthermore, most vehicle owners using the current Tele Aid telematics service can also upgrade to mbrace by visiting a Mercedes-Benz dealer.

Source:motorauthority.com

A law prohibiting front-mounted entertainment systems could interfere with Jaguar’s plans

Dual-view displays have been billed as the hottest new technology to hit the automobile since GPS, and though the hype might be overdone, there’s a lot of merit to the idea. Americans might not get to find out, however, due to a law prohibiting front-seat entertainment systems.

Based in the common-sense idea of limiting driver distractions, the law also technically rules out use of the new dual-view technology which feeds different images to driver and passenger from a single screen.

Jaguar’s new 2010 XJ flagship could be one of the first victims of the law, reports Autocar. The company’s own Ian Callum, chief of design, says it’s “technically illegal.” That technicality could be enough to keep the system out of early models, at least until the regulation can be changed to allow for the new technology.

Of course, that assumes that regulators will be willing to change the rule to allow such dual-view systems.

Given that the whole purpose of the dual-view system is to keep the driver supplied with navigation or other important behind-the-wheel info while limiting the entertainment side to passenger view, approval seems likely, though as with all things governmental, don’t expect quick action.

Source:motorauthority.com