New infotainment features to ease traffic jam frustrations

Manufacturers are looking at new ways of combining infotainment features in the car so that drivers can use time spent in a traffic jam more effectively.
Car parts supplier Siemens VDO is presenting systems linking the mobile phone, MP3 Player or mobile Internet with the vehicle's onboard computer at the Frankfurt Motor Show from September 13 to 23.
The features enable drivers to call up and answer emails or simply choose entertainment. External infotainment systems are linked to the car's onboard computer via a Bluetooth connection or USB sockets. The driver operates the system from the steering wheel. BMW said it was working on a personalised radio function that would enable drivers to receive a vast array of radio programmes from all parts of the world.
-DPA