Monday, 8 October 2007

Technical highlight: Head-Up Display in the 2008 Cadillac XRL-V

Modern vehicles are so heavily infused with technology that mastering the intricacies of them may seem insurmountable to a large number of consumers. As a result, simple-to-use and effective pieces of tech stand out among others in today’s laundry list-like specification sheets. Head-Up Display, as tested in the 2008 Cadillac XLR-V, distinguishes itself as such.

Head-Up Display projects critical vehicle information onto the windshield, allowing a driver to “stare through” the vitals while keeping his or her eyes on the road. In the 443-horsepower XLR-V application you see speed, transmission gear, fuel level, audio settings and the high-beam indicator. The same is true of the base XLR, but with 123 fewer horsepower, keeping an eye on increasing vehicle velocity is not as crucial.

The XLR-V is the quickest production Cadillac ever, with 0-60 mph times well under 5.0 seconds (4.6 seconds according to Cadillac). Handling the rush of 12 psi of supercharged boost in an already powerful 4.4-liter Northstar V8 engine requires the driver’s undivided attention; Head-Up Display keeps the focus on the road ahead. Showing engine revolutions per minute would be useful as well when in manumatic mode, but for everyday driving in the regular automatic function, HUD helps control those “unintended” 30-80 mph bursts that seemed to result over and over from planting the gas pedal on the carpet.

Image: GM Media Online

Posted by industry at 1:11 PM in Technical highlights
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Thursday, 4 October 2007

Technical highlight: Volvo Blind Spot Information System and Adaptive Cruise Control

Motoring along an expressway with the flow of traffic in a midsize luxury-oriented car can put even the most enthusiastic of drivers into auto-pilot mode. We cruise from point A to point B in a state of moderate awareness, concentrating on the pavement directly in front of us but probably not looking down the road or to our sides as diligently as we should. A recent test drive of the Volvo S80 V8 revealed two pieces of technology, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), that offer protective blankets for drivers less than fully tuned in.

Blind Spot Information System (BLIS)
Integrated into the sideview mirrors, BLIS uses backward-facing digital cameras that keep an eye on portions of the road that would otherwise appear invisible relying on mirrors alone. When a vehicle enters a blind spot zone an indicator on the interior mirror blank panel illuminates orange. The strength of the signal is bright enough to be noticed with sunlight pouring in through the rear window, but it really “shines” at night. As soon as the S80 exceeds 6 mph BLIS activates, although a center-stack-mounted button may deactivate the system at any time.

Functionality was just as expected, except when running in the left lane along a guardrail with opposing traffic directly across the barrier. The left indicator, which should have remained off, flashed incessantly as vehicles passed on the other side of the road (or as the guardrail was perceived?). It’s also difficult for BLIS to gauge high-speed vehicles that occupy the blind spots for very short durations of time, as illumination occurs when the vehicle has nearly passed. A second-generation system would benefit from some sort of “smart sensor” that could determine when another car was approaching rapidly and perhaps flash the indicator as a warning. Still, at just $695 across the S80 lineup, BLIS represents a solid value.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
We’ve all been there before when using conventional cruise control on the highway: you’re in the right lane at a set speed, approaching a slower vehicle. You look to your left, and sure enough, another car is about to overtake you. Not wanting to rear-end the car ahead of you but unable to move because of left lane traffic, you get pinched, and deactivate the cruise. Soon after the “resume” function is employed, but your comfortable cruise has already been interrupted.

Adaptive Cruise Control fixes this situation. After you’ve set a desired speed (which is conveniently displayed digitally as well as via the analog gauge), you determine your following gap. As soon as a slow moving car is perceived within your designated gap via radar sensors, the system slows the car automatically. Once the obstacle is clear (i.e. you’ve changed lanes), your set speed resumes automatically.

Volvo also integrated Collision Warning with Brake Support into the cruise control system. An audible alarm and flashing red light in front of the driver go off in tandem when a car ahead brakes quickly and a potential collision is perceived. The system also “pre-charges” the brakes, quickening the pedal-to-rotor transition.

For everyday highway cruising, ACC is awesome. No need to brake or adjust speed down, just switch lanes when clear and allow the system to pull you smoothly back to speed. The are instances in which the system takes one by surprise; for example, when sitting in the right lane behind slow moving traffic awaiting an exit, the car will – as designed – take off as soon as you hit the exit ramp and are thus free of vehicles in front. Braking of course deactivates it, but that first exit ramp lunge still catches you by surprise. Volvo charges $1,495 for ACC, a reasonable sum considering the collision warning system built in.

Source and image: Volvo

Posted by industry at 5:19 PM in Technical highlights
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Friday, 21 September 2007

Embracing automotive technology: another opinion

Whenever a new technological system or component reaches the automotive marketplace, the common reaction among consumers and journalists is to embrace that new feature. Items such as rear-seat entertainment, in-dash CD players, satellite- or DVD-based navigation, multi-zone climate control and others are appreciated for their respective functions. Which is why Kate McLeod’s recent piece over at The Car Connection on Ford’s new Sync entertainment/communication system is striking in its message.

McLeod recognizes the competence of Sync, and seems to appreciate the fact that Ford is including the technology in lower priced vehicles more likely to be purchased by tech-savvy young consumers. But after that, her enthusiasm cools. “Do I want to be driving on a road where other drivers - especially the very young drivers who are completely committed to connectivity - are checking caller ID or setting up a conference call instead of veering over the center line and into me?” writes McLeod. “Spare me - that's my prayer.” Indeed, many of today’s vehicle systems create “distractions with a capital D” in McLeod’s words. The article is worth the read.

Image: Ford media

Posted by industry at 4:17 PM in Technical highlights
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Monday, 6 August 2007

Nissan develops self-modulating accelerator pedal; also shows alcohol sensing technology and lane departure warning

When it comes to innovation in automotive technology, the pursuit of safety seems to bring forward some of the most interesting developments. This spring The View from Inside reported on upcoming features, such as Mercedes-Benz’s Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control, that enhance safety but require drivers to forfeit some control.

Now, Nissan has announced several technologies that have similar “trust-the-computer-and-not-the-driver” mentalities. For example, some upcoming Nissan vehicles will include gas pedals that lift automatically when a potential collision is detected by the built-in radar sensors. Furthermore, the car will begin to stop automatically if the driver responds to the pedal lift by removing his or her foot from the accelerator.

Another system integrates sensors into the gearshift that measure alcohol levels in the driver’s skin. Although the system does not disable a vehicle when levels are exceeded, it does warn the driver and occupants via an audible voice. A camera also monitors eye movement to determine if the driver is intoxicated or too sleepy. While these systems may not make passenger car production, they could be used in commercial vehicles.

The company’s lane departure warning system intervenes by moving the steering wheel when unwanted drifting/swerving is perceived. Finally, sensors in the bumpers trigger a release mechanism that raises the hood slightly in the event of a pedestrian collision. The idea is to place more space between the flexible hood sheetmetal and solid engine components, lessening the chance for injury.

All of these systems place more responsibility in the hands of the vehicle, as driver error is being analyzed and corrected. The balance between driver control and vehicle intelligence will continue well into the future.

Source: The Detroit News

Posted by industry at 10:58 PM in Technical highlights
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Tuesday, 3 July 2007

BMW offers iPhone compatibility

As the automaker that first integrated the iPod portable music device in 2004, BMW has announced that several of its models are iPhone-compatible already, solidifying the German automaker among the first to provide the Apple cell phone integration. Both 3 Series and 5 Series BMWs built since March 2007 are compatible, while X5s assembled after April ’07 are ready. Finally, 6 Series cars produced this coming September and beyond will support the iPhone. After that, additional models will be prepared.

The phone functions through BMW Assist with Bluetooth hands-free calling, while the iPod function of the iPhone only operates in vehicles already equipped with the iPod/USB interface. BMW encourages customers to contact its North American Customer Relations Department with further questions.

Source: BMW USA
Image: Apple Press Info

Posted by industry at 9:21 AM in Technical highlights
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Monday, 18 June 2007

Mercedes reportedly teaming with Apple to develop navigation system

Factory-installed navigation systems in vehicles are among the hottest luxury-oriented options available today, but some analysts and customers have questioned the value of paying multiple thousand dollar premiums for the manufacturer-developed technology. As reported last month by The View from Inside, aftermarket stand alone units exist at much lower prices and are often more current in terms of software. Shorter research and development times by dedicated navigation suppliers – such as Garmin – are primarily responsible for the lag in OEM units.

According to Leftlane News, however, Mercedes-Benz has commissioned Apple to create a new navigation system expected to debut for the 2009 model year. Once fitted in Mercedes products exclusively for six months, the technology will become available to other manufacturers.

Although details on the system are not known, Apple’s all-new iPhone – which uses Google Maps - probably provides the best glimpse. The Mercedes/Apple navigation system could potentially include Internet and email access, as well as the iTunes music jukebox.

Source: Leftlane News
Image: DaimlerChrysler media [Mercedes S-Class navigation]

Posted by industry at 3:57 PM in Technical highlights
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Tuesday, 22 May 2007

Bugatti Veyron audio engineer faces 250-mph challenge

When we consider the necessities of super cars we often picture complicated high-revving engines, sleek aerodynamics, sublime handling characteristics and innovative weight reduction techniques. Comfort and convenience items are often viewed as extraneous features and are thus relegated to lower-tier status. In the case of the million-dollar-plus Bugatti Veyron, however, maintaining a civil, entertaining ride all the way to the car’s 250+ mph top speed presented a significant – yet crucial – challenge.

Accordingly, Bugatti hired Dieter Burmester of Burmester Audiosysteme GmbH in Germany to engineer the sound system integrated within the 1001-horsepower Veyron. Burmester worked closely with Bugatti’s R&D team during modeling of the chassis, rather than receiving the car after development and adding a stereo solution. Veyron audio controls are designed to be viewed and operated at extremely high speeds without distracting the driver. The CD player includes anti-skip technology good beyond 400 kilometers per hour (248.6 mph).

While it’s hard to imagine a Veyron driving fumbling with the stereo at Formula One speeds, Bugatti’s effort in achieving a fully-integrated solution that maintains functionality at the current limit of on-road automotive speed is admirable in itself.

Source: Burnmester and Sybarites via Crave

Posted by industry at 3:19 PM in Technical highlights
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Monday, 21 May 2007

“SameLane” service allows driver-to-driver communication via license plate numbers

In an effort to “remove the walls of steel and glass that separate” drivers on the road, Delta Meridian Inc. has developed a product called SameLane that allows drivers to communicate with one another via cell phones. Vehicles registered in the SameLane network display bumper stickers with a phone number, and other drivers call that number and then input an associated license plate number to be connected with the driver.

In the interest of anonymity and safety, callers do not see users’ actual cell phone numbers, and certain callers may be blocked. The obvious beneficial application of such a technology would be related to safety – drivers could report a brake light out, turn signal stuck blinking or tire going flat. However, Vince Waterson of Delta Meridian believes drivers will take advantage of the service to socialize when, for example, stuck in traffic.

”You have this wall of steel and glass between you and the guy in the next lane,” remarked Waterson. “Sometimes people see someone with a bumper sticker of things they enjoy, and sometimes they just want to talk to someone to keep from falling asleep.” Waterson says that SameLane advertisements will encourage users only to place calls while stationary, but given the prevalence of talking while driving it’s hard to imagine that happening.

Registering for the service is free, as are the first three calls up to three minutes long. Beyond that, a charge of $1.99 per minute is applied. Of course, if two drivers strike up a positive conversation they can simply exchange their real cell phone numbers and thus avoid the SameLane cost. Advertising will reportedly first target the cities of Atlanta, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Washington.

Source: SameLane via The New York Times
Image: SameLane

Posted by industry at 10:59 AM in Technical highlights
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Thursday, 10 May 2007

Navigation systems considered in context of resale value

A recent article in USA Today insightfully considers the value of factory-installed navigation systems in automobiles, especially when it comes time to sell those cars on the used marketplace. Navigation has almost become a requirement for new luxury vehicles today, but the thousands of dollars in premiums that buyers are paying for the systems are not expected to be recovered upon resale. This assessment is based on estimates by the Automotive Lease Guide, an organization that projects residual values to help determine the terms of lease contracts.

For example, a 2007 Acura TSX sedan equipped with navigation is expected to be worth 53 percent of its new price after three years, or $16,400 compared with $30,760. However, the $28,760 TSX without navigation will be worth $15,800, or 55 percent. So that $2,000 premium paid initially will yield just $600 after 36 months. Land Rover’s LR2 functions nearly identically, as models without navigation will be worth 55 percent in three years, while those with the system will command just 52 percent of their original value, according to the ALG. Land Rover specially developed LR2s without the guidance systems to avoid lower resale values across the LR2 lineup.

It’s not that customers do not want navigation. It’s just that the technology is progressing fast enough that some buyers prefer a cheaper – yet more current – portable add-on navigation system, such as those made by Garmin International and Alpine Electronics. Often costing $1,000 less than factory systems, portables provide features such as real-time traffic reporting, Bluetooth capability, weather reporting and even gasoline price updates. A major difference, however, is that portables often do not include voice commands, whereas many factory units do.

Hyundai offers the $750 Garmin International Nüvi system through its dealership network, but is also expected to begin selling factory integrated systems later this year. Toyota is developing “entry-level” navigation, sacrificing voice commands and high resolution displays but maintaining touch screen capability, which is seen as essential.

Analysis: Portables are appealing for various reasons, including cost, modernity of technology and flexibility in application (that is, they can be used in various vehicles). However, they have serious drawbacks as well. For example, an $800 unit sitting on a vehicle’s dashboard could be attractive to thieves. Some states have strict laws regarding the placement of aftermarket equipment behind the windshield. Finally, some drivers simply prefer the clean aesthetic appeal of a factory-integrated design.

Source: USA Today
Image: Acura Media Newsroom [2007 Acura TSX navigation]

Posted by industry at 9:57 AM in Technical highlights
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Thursday, 3 May 2007

Transmission gear ratios continue to rise in number; ZF develops 8-speed automatic

Automotive parts suppliers are constantly working to develop new components that both enhance performance and increase efficiency without sacrificing ease of application and cost. A recent example is ZF’s new eight-speed automatic transmission, a unit that raises fuel efficiency while increasing torque capacity. Compared with a six-speed automatic, the eight-ratio gearbox improves fuel economy by six percent. Even more impressive, however, is the 14 percent increase in fuel economy when considered alongside a five-speed automatic.

Many mid-level vehicles today employ five-speed automatic transmissions, while premium models may arrive with six-speed boxes. Mercedes offers a seven-speed transmission and Lexus an eight, but throughout the industry anything beyond six gears remains scarce. Various manufacturers offer continuously variable transmissions or dual-clutch gearboxes, but ZF’s continued development of the stepped automatic indicates that the design is not going away anytime soon. Granted, the internals of this transmission are entirely new in design, but clearly a demand remains for regular automatics that can handle large torque loads.

Furthermore, the unit fits in the same space that the previous six-speed box did and also may be seamlessly integrated with hybrid-electric and all-wheel-drive vehicles thanks its modular design. Just as five- and six-speed transmissions have trickled down from top-of-the-line cars to the mainstream consumer segment, more advanced gearboxes are on there way once their costs justify their applications.

Source: ZF via Green Car Congress
Image: ZF

Posted by industry at 2:35 PM in Technical highlights
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