Infineon/VW platform to bring in-car services to mass market
The platform removes the need for a corded handsfree facility in order to use a mobile phone in a car. The data on the SIM card from the chosen mobile phone of a vehicle passenger is made available to the basic telematics unit via Bluetooth and all telephone calls are automatically diverted to the unit. SMS messages, telephone numbers or names of callers appear on the instrument panel display. The driver can dial telephone numbers directly by voice input or using controls on the steering wheel. Other potential applications include in-car fault diagnosis with subsequent relaying of the fault information by GSM/GPRS mobile radio to the nearest repair shop, as well as automatic calls to breakdown and recovery services.
The basic telematics unit is based on InfineonÕs TriCore 32-bit chip architecture, which was developed specifically for automotive use. The basic telematics unit includes InfineonÕs SingleStone module for the Bluetooth application, its GPS chipset for satellite-based positioning and its GSM/GPRS chipsets for mobile communication and internet access. Volkswagen developed the software architecture and the complete software package, which is modular in design and reusable. The use of standardised interfaces and rejection of manufacturer-specific software was a basic condition for this.
Volkswagen will trial the basic telematics unit in an internal fleet pilot starting in autumn 2004.
