By ZAM KARIM bytz@thestar.com.my
KUALA LUMPUR: In-vehicle equipment manufacturer Clarion previewed its new Smart Access cloud telematics service here, which according to the company will be incorporated into all its upcoming navigation and in-car entertainment (ICE) systems.
Telematics technology blends computers and wireless telecommunications to provide drivers with a more comfortable, safe and convenient driving environment.
The system connects to the Clarion cloud service either through the TCU telematics communication unit or tethering via a smartphone.
Users will be able to access their smartphone’s installed apps and features directly from the equipment.
Realtime information on traffic and road conditions, as well as weather can be pushed from the server to users through the display, said Yoshihisa Matsuoka, corporate director of Clarion Co Ltd.
The Smart Access interface has been made open source to enable seamless connectivity with car manufacturer OEM devices and aftermarket products — enabling them to customise the features to suit their respective customers, he said.
He said the telematics service can integrate with VRM (vehicle relational management) systems and CRM (customer relational management) systems to enable car vendors to collect data on the performances of components and more within the vehicle.
The ability to tap data generated from VRM and CRM systems can potentially provide both OEM and dealership parties with enhanced customer retention and brand loyalty, increased revenue, greater lifetime value of customers, and cost reduction, Matsuoka said.
He said the new lineup of in-vehicle products enables Clarion to transform itself from an “in-vehicle information equipment manufacturer” to an “in-vehicle information solutions provider.” The Smart Access technology was developed with the help of Hitachi Group and has been launched in North America and Japan. It will be launched in the other countries in stages.
++++ www.clarion.com
