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Long Beach, CA - Microsoft Corp. today announced at the ITS 2002 (Intelligent Transportation Systems) America annual meeting that Volvo Cars of North America LLC new line of vehicles, available worldwide, contains advanced in-vehicle computing systems fueled by Microsoft® technology. Microsoft's robust, real-time embedded operating system, Windows® CE, powers the navigation devices in the 2002 Volvo S60, S80 and Cross Country models.<P><BR>Mitsubishi Electric Corp., the preferred navigation supplier of Volvo, delivers leading-edge navigation systems based on Microsoft technology. The Windows Powered solution provides Volvo motorists with the safest and easiest access to navigation systems in their cars.<P>"The Volvo Car's navigation system is a compelling value-add to our customers," said Peter Rask, vice president of global communications at Volvo Car Corp. "Our goal is to enable our customers to safely and efficiently extend their connected lifestyle to the road. This in-vehicle computing solution powered by Microsoft technology allows us to realize that objective."<P>The decision by Volvo to include Windows CE technology in its latest car models demonstrates a further commitment by the two companies to work collaboratively to improve the in-car computing experience for drivers and passengers. In December, Microsoft's MSN® unit and Ford Motor Co.'s Volvo unit announced a co-marketing alliance.<P>"Putting Microsoft technology in our vehicles takes us one step closer to the end-to-end connectivity that our consumers are asking for," said Phil Bienert, manager of CRM, e-Business and future product strategy for Volvo Cars of North America LLC. "From our agreement with MSN to our use of Microsoft Web technology to using Windows CE in our vehicles, we see Microsoft as an industry partner that drives our business today and in the future."<P>With Windows CE-based technology, Microsoft and industry partners are positioned to lead the race in advancing these flexible and integrated telematics devices.<P>"Microsoft is dedicated to developing technology for the auto industry and its suppliers that seamlessly and cost-effectively enables the design, development and delivery of world-class in-car applications," said Bob McKenzie, general manager of the Automotive Business Unit at Microsoft. "Volvo's selection of MELCO's in-vehicle computing devices, powered by Microsoft technology, demonstrates the company's commitment to empowering its customers with the safest, most advanced telematics products and services available today."<P>Volvo's new line of vehicles outfitted with Microsoft technology is available today worldwide.<P>About Windows Powered Technology for Automotive<P>Microsoft has invested half a decade to provide the automotive industry with great software that delivers information, entertainment, communication and services in vehicles. The company works very closely with automakers, automotive electronics manufacturers and consumers to provide the embedded automotive market with the systems and tools for building the next generation of intelligent, Windows Powered devices that demand rich applications and Internet services for a wide range of flexible solutions.

 

[lewt8]

Has anyone heard much about the Speech Recognition capabilities of the Microsoft system? I would like to be able to give voice commands while driving but accuracy is key. Searching <A HREF="http://www.automotiveindustrynews.com" TARGET=_blank>www.automotiveindustrynews.com</A> gives me articles but no editorial.

 

[Poritz]

I am surprised that an automaker would allow themselves to be boxed into the M$ corner. The licensing fees have to be tremendous. They should have gone with some sort of open source system. I don't want to sound like one of those Linux fanboys but there would significant advantages to using a unix based system. If they were apprehensive about using open source software there are other vendors. <A HREF="http://www.qnx.com" TARGET=_blank>QNX</A> develops the industry stardard embedded OS for machinery, and electronics controls. All the computer afficiandos here probably have heard of it. I bet I just killed the thread with my technical speak.<P>-Poritz<p>[This message has been edited by Poritz (edited 08-05-2002).]

 

[Prospero]

Great! Now when I tell my pals that I've crashed my car, it can have two meanings!!! I just hope that I don't get the BSOD on my windshield one day.<P>Prospero