GPS: Now limiting your speed

The Canadian government agency for transportation is testing a new device that will make it almost impossible to ignore speed limits.

A technical solution based on the GPS technology in combination with digital map containing speed limits will make it hard to press down the accelerator once you reached the speed limit.
The new device combines GPS technology and a digital speed limit map. Once the car reaches the speed limit it will become hard to press down the accelerator. This has already been tried in some European countries.

Although speed is responsible for 25 percent of all fatal crashed it will not be easy to implement such a solution. Most people just don't want their speed to be limited and those who want can use a cruise control. Making it law will hopefully consider to take out emergeny cars from this rules and the colleagues over at Engadget see the end of romance in it:

"what if you’re late to your true love’s wedding with the wrong guy, and you have to pound on the glass from above screaming her name? This system could ruin everything."

Foursprung, GPS, speed limit

Source: MobileMag via Engadget

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Foursprung: Bio tires made of corn

A good alliance for our environment seems to be the cooperation between the tire manufacturer Goodyear and the Italian eco-bio-chemical firm Novamont.
The result of their collaboration are bio-tires made of corn. Using their non-GMO corn starch called Mater Bi Novamont produced an additive, or biofiller, which replaces part of the lampblack and silica normally contained in the tire mixture.

Not only producing these bio-tires needs less energy. The tires provide reduced rolling resistance, noise and emissions and increasing fuel efficiency.

Ford and BMW already approved them to be used on their new cars.

Foursprung, tires

Source: Treehugger

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Foursprung: Tires with low rolling resistance

Green Seal has released a report on tires with low rolling resistance.
Rolling resistance is an indicator for the energy wasted as heat between the tire and the road, within the tire sidewall itself, and between the tire and the rim while rolling down the road.

Having similar size, type, and level of performance different tires differ up to 30% in the rolling resistance. That means that a vehicle using the most efficent tires could save up to 6% of gasoline.

Recommended tire are for instance Bridgestone B381, Nokian NRT2 and Sumitomo HTR 200.

Foursprung, tires

Source: Treehugger

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iPod: Win a Griffin RoadTrip at TUAW

As we reported several times there are many ways integrating your iPod to your car. Showing which is your current way of integrating your music to your car by posting a photo in the comments of the blog article can make you the winner of the reviewed Griffin Raodtrip device.
The TUAW bloggers will gather in our underground lair and decide which of the entries is truly deserving of this technological marvel. Entries are accepted until midnight December 6th.

Good luck!!!

Foursprung, iPod, MP3

Source: The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)

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Foursprung: Mac up your ride

A poster at the MP3car.com forum just presented pictures from his really great Apple Mac Mini integration to his F-150 with touch screen and the Front Row software combining the benefits of Apple's Hard- and Software with real mobility.

Mobile media at it's best - real great job, papimachulo!!!

See more pictures at the link below...

Foursprung, Apple, Mac, Media, MP3

Source: MP3car.com

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Foursprung: BT anti-theft guy has Audi nicked

Please read how an anti-theft solution with some "Foursprung" can bring back your car,

New proof that BT is more than copper phone lines and Bob Hoskins - today it's launching a GPS security kit for your motor.

Ingeniously dubbed Trackit, BT's new service consists of the wireless fob you see pictured and a series of black boxes that a professional chap/chapette installs in your car.

When a kitted-out car is stolen without the fob in the vicinity - in your pocket, for example - a signal is silently sent to BT. It then passes on satellite coordinates to the cops and you get a text telling you your car is now being driven by a hoodie-wearing nipper.

In what we'd describe as a fortuitous coincidence, one of BT's testers had his Trackit-equipped Audi A4 nicked nearly four weeks ago. Surprise, surprise - BT's system tracked him down and the good police of Brum had his German-engineered pride and joy back within 50 minutes.

Anti-theft that tracks cars by satellites isn't new, but this is the first time we've seen a wireless fob used. BT's argument is that - since car security is now so impenetrable these days - most cars are stolen by light-fingered thieves nicking car keys. All you need to do now is make sure they don't nick the fob too.

To protect the precious in your life, you'll pay £450 for an install plus £150 for a year's service. If you want European protection for those Nice trips and Chamonix ski hols, you'll need to pay £57 a year extra.

Foursprung, Audi, Anti-theft

Source: Stuff magazine via AudiWorld

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Foursprung: More pics of the Nissan Wingroad Rider iPod integration

Maybe not the best car in the world, but definitely one with the best marketing for their iPod integration: the Nissan Wingroad Rider.
We reported about it some days ago, but now I had the chance to personally check the Nissan showroom in Ginza, Tokyo, and I must admit, it works great!
Here are some more offical pics from the Apple Japan website.






You can also read more at Apple about it, at least if you can speak Japanese.

Foursprung, Nissan Wingroad Rider, Apple, iPod

Source: Apple Japan

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Foursprung: world's first widely-available armoured passenger vehicle

As gizmag states out the world can be a hostile and dangerous place with hundreds of war zones around the world at any given time, plus many countries where assassination and kidnapping are routine:

"Despite wars and organized criminal activity, life has to go on, and there are some people who feel the need to be transported in the manner befitting their station in life. An armouring industry has grown up around the 50 wars that are going on in the world.

But these vehicle manufacturers are boutique in comparison to the robust distribution network and global marketing resources of Jaguar. Our prediction is that Jaguar’s move will add serious global recognition to the company’s already prestigious brand. Jaguar’s just-announced Armoured XJ Long Wheelbase luxury saloon car is an armoured passenger vehicle with capabilities far beyond the needs of day to day transportation with added security, without compromising the ability of the car.

This British product offers protection from firearms and blast attack, robbery, kidnap and car jacking, and will become the car of choice for heads of state, high profile business people, diplomats and celebrities throughout the world. Which will make it even more attractive to the business elite.

From the exterior the Armoured XJ Long Wheelbase is virtually identical to the standard XJ bringing absolute discretion to owners. However appearances can be deceptive, as the new Armoured XJ Long Wheelbase is heavily armoured, featuring significant modifications like bullet-resistant laminated glazing, underbody protection, steel-armouring and run flat tyres.

Though the Armoured XJ closely resembles the road going XJ, its chassis has been extensively adapted to compensate for additional weight and a potentially more aggressive driving style with reinforced springs and dampers. This ensures that it is just as agile and safe to drive as the production version as well as being lighter than its armoured competitors.

A fully retuned variable assisted steering system (VAPS) with an increased pressure flow power steering pump realigns the increased mass of the armoured vehicle to the steering effort inputs of the driver.

The car is also fitted with opposed 6 piston Alcon mono-block brake callipers to the front of the vehicle and 4 piston Alcon mono-block callipers to the rear, along with performance friction material brake pads and larger ventilated brake discs to substantially increase braking performance. Original air suspension has been replaced with passive suspension to account for the additional mass. The vehicle is equipped with specially strengthened and tuned Bilstein B46 dampers and bespoke Eibach springs manufactured from special ultra strength silicon alloy – a combination tuned to optimise the balance between ride, comfort and body control.

Designed to provide maximum protection to driver and passengers alike, the Armoured XJ Long Wheelbase features many security attributes to make each journey a safe one."

Foursprung, amour

Source: gizmag

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Foursprung: Windows Media Center PC in your dashboard

eHomeupgerade reports about a great multimedia dashboard integration:

"This project should get any tech junkie itching for the next year, easy. A very tech-savy, and dedicated forum poster at mp3Car.com has posted images of Windows Media Center running in a 1999 Buick Century (via Jake Ludington's MediaBlab). The 7" touchscreen is connected to a computer under the temperature controls. The computer features 512MB of RAM, an 80GB harddrive, wireless 802.11g networking and a slot-loading, dual-layer DVD Burner. If you're like me, you're already making a list of the items you'll need to complete this in your car. Absolutely amazing."

Foursprung, in-car, media, PC

Source: eHomeUpgrade

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Foursprung: Universal Docking to be worked out

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) has begun a giant undertaking. Realizing the annoyance of multiple docking stations we’re forced to use when confronted with all of our different portable electronics, these good people have decided to work out a standard docking connector that would work in vehicles as well as in your home.

“It is important for the industry to create an open, industry-wide standard for docking connectors that will give consumers greater access to the digital entertainment they have stored on devices,” says Jai Jaisimha, lead program manager of the Windows Digital Media Division at Microsoft Corp. “The proposed standard will allow consumers to select and play content stored on a portable device using entertainment controls in their cars and homes.”

Unfortunately there is no timeline for this until now...

Foursprung, universal, docking

Source: Gizmodo

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Foursprung: World’s Greatest… Radio Scanners

How does a radio scanner differ from a traditional radio? Whereas a generic radio receives only AM and FM, a radio scanner detects virtually everything else that’s broadcast—CB radio, air traffic control instructions, cellphones, and, yes, chatter among cops. Eavesdropping on the police would become a mandatory aspect of my Gumball strategy.

Radio enthusiasts and ham operators have been using scanners since the 1950s, though portable units didn’t debut until about two decades later. By the 1980s, a couple hundred bucks scored you a handheld scanner from the likes of Radio Shack, and a generation of geeks grew up eavesdropping on frequencies unheard by the masses.

The spectrum for scanner use runs from innocent fun (listening in on NASCAR pit crews and airplane cockpit chatter) to the lurid (emergency dispatchers) to potentially illegal (police and highway patrol conversations). Laws vary from state to state, but the general rule of thumb is you can listen in as long as you’re not using the information to commit a crime.

The colleagues over at Gizmodo did a feature on this topic including a review of the best devices for this. Enjoy...

Foursprung, radio, scanners

Source: Gizmodo

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iPod: FM transmitter with power charge

In the past one of the main disadvantages of the FM transmitters for listening to your iPod music on your in-car stereo was the missing power charging functionality.

ezGear has now released the ezTrip FM TransCharger which combines both a car charger and an FM transmitter into one product.
The device is built especially for new iPods, but will work with previous models too. The ezTrip uses the power from your car to provide a clear strong signal to your radio. The LCD display and control buttons give you instant access to all frequencies. In addition, you no longer need to use a separate car charger…because the ezTrip charges your iPod while you listen.

Foursprung, iPod

Source: ezGear

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Foursprung: The NASCAR PC

In a similar move like Lamborghini and Ferrari, American race car series NASCAR is now offering their own PC.

The NASCAR PC includes:
• NASCAR PC branded Skins, NASCAR themed icons, and Animated Media Player with Enhanced Functionality
• Nextel TrackPass Trial
• Raceday Scanner Trial
• Trial Membership to the Official NASCAR Members Club
• Exclusive 10% off of all NASCAR.com Superstore Purchases
• NASCAR ScreenSaver

Foursprung, NASCAR, PC

Source: CISNETPC via Autoblog

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Foursprung: Firm to put WiMAX video into speeding cars

An interesting report from Japan:

A REPORT said that Japanese firm KDDI will expand a WiMAX test system in Osaka which will allow video to be streamed into travelling cars.

According to the Nihon Keizai Shimbun, KDDI's system will allow video units inside cars travelling at 80 kilometres per hour to show stable images.

The firm has been testing three devices on an Osaka motorway but will expand that to 100 devices in December.

The same report said KDDI claimed that similar systems will reduce the cost of mobile telephony to 10 per cent the current cost.

Foursprung, WiMAX

Source: The Inquirer

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Audi A6: State of the art display

German car manufacturer, Audi, is proudly displaying its state of the art Audi A6 on a technologically advanced Airport Media display at Johannesburg International Airport. The display automatically sends airport users with blue tooth cellphones a video clip of the A6.

The screen which sends the Bluetooth signal keeps a record of how many phones it sent its signal to, how many users accepted the signal, as well as the date, time and type of cellphone, allowing Audi to measure the impact of this campaign.

Like the A6, the stand is aesthetically pleasing, neat and spacious, and a trained motoring consultant is on site to answer any questions that airport users may have.

This campaign adds Display Stands to Airport Media's already impressive niche marketing tools at the airport. Debbie Lea says, "Being the largest SA owned concessionaire at ACSA airports has not prevented us from enhancing our clients' brands by offering them unique advertising opportunities."

Foursprung, Audi A6

Source: Biz Community

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Foursprung: Americans stand to benefit from navigation systems

Leftlane News has an interesting article about how Americans stand to benefit from navigation systems.

A new survey suggests that navigation systems may be a worthwhile investment for many americans, who have a tendency to get lost during the holiday travel season. Nearly 60 percent of drivers in the United States get lost get lost on the roads each year, according to the survey, which was conducted by Harris Interactive on behalf of Lincoln. The survey found that some traditional gender stereotypes hold true when it comes to driving and directions. For example: women (61 percent) are more likely than men (42 percent) to stop and ask for directions; Twenty-six percent of men will be lost for a half-hour or more before taking any corrective action; Women (75 percent) are more likely than men (61 percent) to always make sure they have directions before starting a trip; Yet men (75 percent) are more likely than women (60 percent) to keep a map in the car.

When it comes to more advanced technology, men (36 percent) are more likely than women (26 percent) to have in-vehicle experience with a global positioning system ( GPS)-based navigation system.

Consulting an online source is the most typical (76 percent) way to obtain directions to a new place. Yet nearly 60 percent of vehicle owners surveyed say they would use a GPS navigation system over any other source for direction.

Foursprung, Navigation

Source: Leftlane News

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Hybrids: Utah Student Building Hybrid '32 Ford

Brent Singleton, a student at a Utah technology college, is combining the old (a 1932 Ford) with the new (hybrid engine). He's put an interesting twist on the idea of the hybrid engine, though: Brent wants his power to come more from the electric side, producing something similar to the plug-in hybrid idea we've mentioned before here and here, just to name a few. Though some of the details are unclear, we admire Brent's youthful enthusiasm: "Their idea of a hybrid vehicle is that you run a gas motor to run (the) electric (motor), and then you have a little bit of battery pack to do the rest. And (mine) is a mainly electric motor so you can have any fuel system on it...it can be anything you want it to be!" Once done, he wants to build a kit to make conversions for other cars easier. Go Brent Go!

Foursprung, hybrids

Source: The Treehugger

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Foursprung: Roadscope PLUS Saves Lives

The Roadscope PLUS may well be a standard feature on every car in the near future as it has some cool features that will make travelling safer. Its basically a Digital Image BlackBox, Lane Departure Warning System, Stop & Go Alarming System and Lane Keeping Guide rolled into one.

The Roadscope PLUS could well be a lifesaver. Developed by Korean company PLK, this automotive smart sensor acts as an extra pair of eyes while you’re on the road, continually monitoring the environment via a camera that can be easily installed behind the mirror. There are four functions, including the nifty Digital Image BlackBox application. This essentially behaves like an airplane’s black box and records the vital moments in case of a car kiss or collision by another motorist.

Foursprung, camera

Source: The Gadget Blog

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Foursprung: All-in-one rear seat entertainment

There are a ton of solutions out there for rear seat entertainment, so ultimately it comes down to what’s right for your needs. However, there are two key things to consider before you buy:

1) Do you mind if your rearview mirror is blocked when your rear seat passengers are watching a movie or playing a video game?
2) Do you need the ability to watch two different things at one time?

Now if your answer to questions #1 and #2 are YES, then you should consider All-In-One Headrest Monitor/DVD Systems.

Check out two reputable brands that specialize in this sort of thing and I think afterwards you’ll agree with me that this is the only way to go!


Foursprung, Rear seat, entertainment

Source: Inside Line

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Car Navigation: New device with integrated T-DMB

Korean company GIGA Telecom has plans to release a T-DMB car navigation device with BWS and TPEG services available called The Tube. What do all these acronyms mean? Basically, BWS is “Broadcast Website Service” which allows you to view the web on the go, while TPEG stands for “Transport Protocol Expert Group” and is designed to push updates such as weather to the device. The new device you can carry around, or more ideally, hook up to your car and use it as a navigation system. The Tube is powered by a 400MHz S3C2440 processor, it has a 4.3” TFT LCD and is powered by Windows CE 4.2. It supports DivX, XviD, MPEG4-SP, MPEG1, M-JPEG, and Windows Media Video. Not too bad. It will also feature on-board GPS and will come in CDMA and Wi-Fi versions.

Foursprung, GPS, navigation, T-DMB

Source: Gizmodo

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Foursprung: Motorcycle Helmets With Tunes

You know that you get sick of the wind blowing by your ears when you take your hog out for a spin. Sometimes it’d be nice to have some music playing without jeopardizing your safety. Now that’s possible with a bone conduction speaker from Nippon MNI Inc. The speaker costs about $50 and can be safely fitted into a motorcycle helmet. You can then connect it to any music player you have to start pumping in that rock and roll at 100MPH. On sale next year for about $50.

Foursprung, motorcycle, motorbike, helmet, tunes

Source: Gizmodo

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Foursprung: Cigarette lighter FM transmitter

Sadly, these are not another variety of iPod-powered sex toy, these are Logitec Japan’s colorful new cigarette lighter-powered FM transmitters, to play your DAP-of-choice through your car stereo system. They’re available in 5 colors to ensure a perfect match between your car interior and DAP player, thus making for a greater sense of smug self-satisfaction, which for 5000 yen (approx. US$40) is a bargain!


Foursprung, FM, transmitter

Source: Gizmodo

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Bluetooth: Mobile Audio Head Unit/Receiver with Bluetooth Technology

Why aren't there more audio head units (big brands that is) with Bluetooth capability? Alpine, Eclipse, Kenwood, Pioneer, what’s up? The Auto Manufacturers are offering this capability as a factory option and in some cases its standard equipment. I thought the aftermarket industry was supposed to be ahead of the curve.

Foursprung, Car, Audio, Bluetooth, telephone, integration

Source: Inside Line

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Foursprung: Rear view in motorbike helmet

For the past two years Reevu’s rear view technology has taken the Sports and Leisure industry by storm – creating a new benchmark in preventative safety on roads, in all five continents around the world.

A new dawn has arrived in helmet development with the REEVU motorsports helmet. REEVU have created the world’s first patented rear-view helmet range that gives the wearer that all round vision “at a glance.” REEVU believe that they have made a helmet that will help prevent accidents because we all know “prevention is better than cure”.

The amazing Reevu MX1 motorbike helmet is now available for distribution. Years of development plus leading edge Italian design skills have created a helmet that not only looks cool but also has amazing aerodynamics whilst meeting and exceeding the most rigorous safety and construction standards.

A stunning package that looks great and dramatically increases awareness of traffic conditions behind the motorcyclist due to Reevu’s rear view technology.

It is an unbeatable combination and will be available from stockists near you soon.

Foursprung, motorbike, motorcycle, rearview, helmet

Source: OhGizmo

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Foursprung: Night vision coming soon

Night Vision from Bosch shall make driving by night more comfortable and safer. The active infrared Night Vision system with a range of about 150 meters supplies the driver with an accurate image of the situation in front of the car. The high-resolution, brilliant image on the monitor is rich in contrast and details; it is very similar to the normal visual impression received with high beam. This allows the driver to better follow the course of the road in the dark, get better bearings of the environment and to see other road users or possible obstacles early on. Light from headlamps of oncoming vehicles is attenuated in the monitor image and no longer blinds the driver. All these features of Night Vision help to relieve the feeling of insecurity which overcomes many drivers when driving by night. The range of the low beam of a regular halogen headlamp is, as a rule, a mere 40 meters. Because of the high traffic density in Europe producing always a lot of oncoming traffic, high beam can only be used on rare occasions.

The Night Vision system produces a very detailed image:
The system consists basically of an infrared video camera attached between the interior rear-view mirror and the windshield, a display in the cockpit, the electronic control unit and two infrared headlamps. Night Vision is an active system on the basis of NIR (near infrared) technology. Active means: the road is illuminated with infrared light which cannot be seen by the human eye. Thus Night Vision renders all objects visible, even those not generating any sensible heat, such as road posts, road signs, lost cargo or parked cars, even road markings.

Bosch has confirmed that the innovative night-vision system it developed for Mercedes-Benz - as seen in the new flagship S-Class - "will be available in other cars as well in the future".

What those other cars might be is anyone's guess - arch rival BMW already offers a rival system developed by Swedish parts maker Autoliv.

Volkswagen Group is arguably the most likely recipient, but it will probably be a while before you can specify see-in-the-dark systems in your Skoda, sadly.

Foursprung, night, vision

Source: Bosch via Auto IT Blog

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Alternative energy: Intel Inside the Venturi Fetish makes energy sharing possible

Considering France’s Venturi Fetish — the first electric supercar —- is basically a six-figure consumer electronics product, it’s not hard to imagine all the chips required to manage functions like battery charging and energy storage, systems applications and communication with the home office for upgrades and related software tweaks. It’s that last one that’s driving a partnership of sorts between Intel and Venturi. The two companies recently announced they were pooling resources, particularly on the WiMAX wireless broadband technology incorporated into the Fetish for data communication. Intel is an industry supporter of the WiMax (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access) standards, a kind of metropolitan-area version of WiFi. The companies hope to expand the use of WiMax in the Fetish to include communication with other vehicles — to buy and sell energy — or act as an energy node for utility companies.

Foursprung, Alternative energy, electric, Venturi

Source: GizMag via Jalopnik.com

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Car audio: Taylor-made high end with VW Passat

You may be familiar with Dynaudio from their HiFi speaker background. Why we write about it is because they’ve recently teamed up with a number of car manufacturers to offer premium stereo upgrades on new models.
The new VW Passat is one of the childs of this new team and it is very impressive indeed.

Instead of mounting a few speakers as an after-thought as a car reaches the final stage in its development, Dynaudio was involved in the design of the total sound system from the very early design stages, working closely with the Volkswagen development team. Being involved so early meant that the Dynaudio engineers could optimise the location, mounting and housing of all components and precision-tailor the amplifiers and associated circuitry in order to achieve the best possible performance.
The end result is a sound system that has been perfectly integrated, both sonically and aesthetically, in the Passat's interior where the unobtrusive Dynaudio logos are the only visible clues to the system's tremendous performance potential. A combination of ten Dynaudio loudspeaker chassis, powered by State-of-the-Art digital amplifiers using Digital Sound Processing (DSP) technology, provide a sound experience not heard previously.

Interestingly there’s no subwoofer in the design but you wouldn’t know that to listen to it. To say it sounds better than the standard stereo is something of an understatement. It is the best standard fit car stereo I’ve ever heard, and it’s completely stealthy. No huge speakers sitting on the parcel shelf, no massive subwoofer taking up your boot space - to the casual observer the stereo is no different to the normal model.

Foursprung, car, audio, VW, Passat, Dynaudio

Source: Dynaudio

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GPS: New in-car device for first-time buyers

In-car GPS devices have come a long way in terms of usability and affordability, as intuitive plug-and-play systems infiltrate the market and prices fall below the $1,000 mark. However, Garmin takes it one step further with its new Garmin StreetPilot i series - a line of small, inexpensive automotive GPS navigators that make driving fun.
No larger than a baseball and priced affordably, the StreetPilot i-series is destined to be a hit for commuters, college students, and corporate travelers who are looking to experience the ease and enjoyment of GPS satellite navigation for the first time.
Don’t let the size fool you: The StreetPilot i-series has many of the same powerful capabilities as our other premium automotive GPS navigators.
You won't find any advanced features, such as a touch screen and text-to-speech functionality, but they have all the essentials for getting you from point A to point B: text and voice-guided directions, automatic rerouting, and most important, a strong and accurate receiver.
The i-series features a unique and convenient click-to-enter scroll wheel and a “back” button which makes it easy to select a destination from the unit’s menu-driven interface. The i2, i3, and i5 include 3-D map graphics, and provide voice-prompted, turn-by-turn directions through a built-in speaker. These units will also automatically put drivers back on course if they miss a turn. Easily move them from vehicle to vehicle with an integrated suction cup mount.
Prices are $321 for the StreetPilot i2, $428 for the midlevel StreetPilot i3 and $535 for the i5 to have maps preloaded on to the device's hard drive.

Foursprung, GPS, in-car

Source: Garmin

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Ford Europe: Models to offer voice control

Puuh, we never even thought about the possibility that we will mention Ford and "Foursprung" together in one sentence, but it seems like that Ford Europe equips their cars with a nice gadget: voice control!

Ford announced Thursday that the majority of its European models will offer Bluetooth wireless connectivity and voice control of onboard systems by early 2006. The technology has been test marketed on selected models since May 2005.

The voice system is integrated with the audio system, and is intended to provide a safe and convenient way to operate mobile phones, climate controls and entertainment equipment while driving. The system includes a specially-designed DSP microphone for optimum voice control in a noisy car environment, and uses the audio system speakers for all applications.

As Bluetooth-equipped phones become more common in the U.S., we would expect to see this technology migrate to the American market.

Foursprung, Ford

Source: Autoblog

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Radio: Mercedes-Benz will come standard equipped with Sirius radio

Mercedes-Benz has announced that Sirius satellite radio will now come standard in a number of 2007 vehicles, including the SL-Class, CL-Class, AMG-tuned models and anything with a “600” in the designation.

Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. (SIRI.O: Quote, Profile, Research) and DaimlerChrysler AG's (DCXGn.DE: Quote, Profile, Research) Mercedes-Benz USA unit on Thursday said the luxury auto maker will start offering the satellite radio service as standard equipment.

Beginning with 2007-year models, which will be introduced next year, Sirius will for the first time be included as standard equipment on some Mercedes cars, including all SL-Class, CL-Class, AMG and 600 model vehicles.

The two companies also said Thursday that they extended through September 2012 an exclusive marketing and distribution arrangement that gives Sirius an edge over rival XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc. (XMSR.O: Quote, Profile, Research) with Mercedes buyers.

Foursprung, Mercedes-Benz, Sirius, Radio

Source: Reuters via Jalopnik

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GPS: Famous voices to lead your way

Forget about that generic voice that came with your GPS. If you want your directions to be delivered with attitude, why not have Mr. T show you the way? Or, for that “Easy Rider” experience, let Dennis Hopper rev you up. The two are just some of the celebrities whose voices are being digitized as downloadable “navtones” for use with GPS systems. Developer Wanderlust Media is a little vague on which GPS systems support the custom voices, requesting that potential customers help out by “clicking your navigation manufacturer and sending them a quick note as to why your system deserves special attention.” We’ll hold off on an endorsement until we find out more — though we do think we might actually get lost a little less often with Mr. T shouting at us to “pay attention to what I’m saying! You gonna get the directions … you gonna be there safely, or else!”

Foursprung, GPS, voices

Source: Engadget

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Foursprung: No more sleep driving

Until the dawn of teleportation or an efficient, cost-effective public transportation system free of man-sewage, we’re stuck shuffling our flesh stumps around in cars. That’s ok ‘cept for the overwhelming urge to rest our eyes “just for a sec” only to wake up swaddled in airbag dust, mellon, and ginseng paste inside the corner Bodega. Well no’mo! We bring you the Doze Alert — a battery powered, 2-ounce safety device which slips over the ear waiting to blast you with 86 decibels (someone shouting) as soon as your head dips below a user adjustable threshold. They also offer “Deer Alert” presumably to warn you of offensive Christmas props.

Foursprung, doze, alert, sleeping

Source: Engadget

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MP3: Listen to your music and find your way with integrated GPS

Looking very similar to a landline phone handset chopped in half, Korean shopping site JoyFriend’s DAJOA MP3 player/GPS receiver will probably never capture any design awards. However, for $130, you do get a lot of functionality packed into a 140-gram device, albeit one with a black-and-white screen, 128MB of memory (no expansion-ouch), and 200 minutes of usage in GPS mode. Luckily for you, this inexpensive temptress will never be seen on US shelves, beckoning you and your wallet to overlook its lackluster implementation.

Foursprung, GPS, MP3, integration

Source: Engadget

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GPS: New receiver improving reception

Transplant GPS is bumping their EMTAC Bluetooth GPS line with a new chip set to improve accuracy; pulling location data from 20 satellites simultaneously and updating every second, before forwarding the data to your handheld or laptop over Bluetooth. They’re saying this should give you the edge over other receivers in places where reception is usually poor, but the $150 price only nets you a 6 hour lithium-ion battery, so we hope you weren’t planning on going very far.

Foursprung, GPS, receiver

Source: Yahoo! via Engadget

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iPod: flexibleDock offers alternative charge

TEN Technology’s dark gray flexibleDock is an adjustable iPod car dock and charger that takes over the mantle of the company’s iPod mini flexDock. This new iteration is compatible with 3G/4G/5G iPods, the iPod mini, and the iPod nano. Priced at $50, it will begin to ship this week. The flexibleDock works with the majority of standard issue cigarette lighter sockets to charge the iPod whilst holding the iPod securely within the confines of its adjustable metal arm.

Foursprung, iPod, charging

Source: iLounge via Ubergizmo

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Foursprung: Patent proposes RFID tags with VIN info

Anyone who has ever been hit by another driver who then fled the scene knows how frustrating hit-and-run accidents can be; unless you have a solid witness or some good forensic evidence, most of these crimes are never solved. Well a patent application slithering its way through the patent office approval maze proposes a unique solution for catching automotive scofflaws: install RFID chips that contain VIN information in every new car. The propsed system incorporates chips with a maximum range of eight inches, to allay privacy concerns, and are only activated during an accident. So even if a hit-and-run driver speeds away, their VIN number will have been recorded by the victim’s RFID tag reader, which can then be read by police. Guess this means that we’re gonna have to start leaving windshield notes every time we “brush up” against someone else’s ride from now on.


Foursprung, Patent, RFID, tags, VIN, info

Source: Engadget

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Foursprung: Future car cockpit concept

Visteon and the Royal College of Art (RCA), London, have unveiled a future car cockpit concept designed to address the increasing demands on driver attention and the interaction with vehicle and portable electronics.

While Visteon is assessing a variety of display technologies, this particular future cockpit concept features laser projection. The use of laser technology enables cockpit designers to present the driver with a simulated 3-D computer screen replacing conventional driver information displays. The technology provides vehicle manufacturers with greater design freedom, whilst at the same time increases perceived quality for the end consumer, according to Visteon’s proprietary consumer research.
As well as utilizing a new display technology, the project has taken a fresh look at the prioritization of data within the cockpit. “We have used our combination of HMI, consumer and systems expertise to design an alternative display concept that reprioritizes the information shown in the space in front of the driver.” said Jim Fleming, Visteon’s Innovation Leader. “The space is divided into three parts, with speed at the top, warning lights at the bottom and the central section determined by the driver.”
The driver chooses one source of information to be displayed in the central section. This could be from the audio or climate system, or from a portable electronics device that he or she is using within the vehicle, such as a mobile phone, PDA, or MP3 player. Bluetooth wireless technology is used to connect these portable devices to the cockpit. The chosen device can be adjusted via steering wheel controls or voice technology.
“Drivers are using more portable electronic devices in their vehicles which increases the number of information sources within the car and hence driver distraction.” continued Fleming. “As this trend looks set to continue, our aim within this project was to explore ways of enabling the devices to be used in a safer manner. The design therefore allows the driver to focus on only one information source at a time, and presents that information on a larger display in a central location.”
“We hope that the future car cockpit project will evolve into a product that will allow vehicle manufacturers to use conventional cockpit architectures whilst providing them with a flexible HMI platform that can be targeted at different consumer groups. We call this product concept a driver HMI module, and our next step will be a joint development project with an OEM partner.”

Foursprung, Future, Car, cockpit, concept

Source: Visteon

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iPod: New car on the compatibility list

What better way to trick out a high-performance vehicle than to make it compatible with the most popular music player in the WORLD? Nissan's Wingload Rider will have the option of connecting the iPod to it's optional Navigation and Entertainment system. By connecting the iPod, iPod Mini or iPod Nano one can listen to music stored on the iPod from the car's speakers. But that’s not all. It also has a sick navigation system with a 7” LCD, DVD / MD / CD reader, and 30-GB HDD for storing your tunes. When you connect an iPod to it, you are given a nice interface and can transfer tunes back and forth. The iPod is also charged by connecting it to the car, so you’ll never run out of juice.

Foursprung, Nissan, Apple, iPod, integration, integration, MP3

Source: Gizmodo

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Audi Q7: In-car entertaintment system

Audi selected the MOST(R) multimedia networking technology has been selected for the infotainment system of the Audi Q7 model. The Q7 was officially launched in September at the Frankfurt Auto Show and enhances the premium auto manufacturer's SUV product line.

MOST multimedia technology enables the networking of feature-rich infotainment systems in this beautiful car by providing the means to distribute multimedia entertainment functions among the various control devices around the car. For example, a CD changer, radio, navigation system, mobile telephone and speech dialog system can be established in an efficient ring network and can send crisp, static-free audio signals digitally to the amplifier by utilizing the MOST network.

Foursprung, Audi, Q7, In-car, Entertainment, Infotainment

Source: SMSC

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Bluetooth: No headset but hands free system

Bluetooth focused Iqua now brings us the Snake Snake HHF-801 Bluetooth headrest handsfree unit. Wirelessly connected to your mobile via Bluetooth 1.2 and designed to attach to the headrest of your ride, it features brushed aluminum and leather stylin’ and features a built-in mic and speaker, a status LED, up to 10 hours of talk time or 300 hours of standby, and 6 hours recharge with included car (and hopefully wall) charger. Man, they are just one design trick away from making this thing double as a steering wheel lock donchathink? Available in time for Xmas if you’re good.

Foursprung, Bluetooth, headset, handsfree, mobile, phone

Source: TRFJ via Engadget

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Fuel cell: New Home Energy station

Honda R&D Americas introduced the Home Energy Station III Monday, its latest step toward a viable hydrogen fueled vehicle system. Developed with fuel cell technology partner Plug Power, Inc., the third generation unit is smaller and more powerful than previous models.

The HES III is designed to supply enough hydrogen to power a fuel cell vehicle in daily operation, while providing electricity for an average-sized household. The unit is fueled by natural gas.

Testing of the new unit with the Honda FCX fuel cell vehicle is underway at Honda R&D Americas California headquarters.

Foursprung, Fuel, Cell, Home, Energy, Station

Source: Honda via Autoblog

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Foursprung: Instant sports car engine sound

Some of you drivers out there may be fond of certain cars. A lot of old motorheads love cars like the GTO, Camaro, and Chevelle. A lot of 17-year-olds from the suburbs on the other hand prefer the sound of Civics, Accords, and Tiburons. Whichever you like, why spend all your money on parts when you can just plunk down the $159 for the VroomBox? The VroomBox offers all kinds of sounds like engine roars, tire screeches, and intakes in the form of a little box with a ton of car models. You can even download more sounds from the web when the 2006 Civic Si comes out and you demand to have more than just the decal off eBay to prove it. Just wire up some speakers under the car and hood and you’ll be golden.

Foursprung, Sound, Sports, Car, Engine

Source: Engadget

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Biodiesel: Made with sugar catalyst

Sugar and vegetable oil are all you need to make biodiesel, say researchers in Japan.

Masakazu Toda and colleagues at Tokyo Institute of Technology have made a solid recyclable catalyst from glucose and sucrose in an attempt to clean up the biodiesel production process. They produced a carbon catalyst that accelerates the esterification process that turns two constituents of vegetable oil – oleic acid and stearic acid – into biodiesel.

But more work needs to be done before Toda’s claims for a sugar-based acid catalyst can be verified, said green chemistry expert Keith Smith at the centre for clean chemistry, University of Wales Swansea, UK.

‘I’m not surprised that it works,’ said Smith, ‘but it has not been tested directly on the fats and oils used in the biodiesel process.’

Biodiesel is made by esterifying the fatty acids in raw vegetable oil with an acid catalyst, but this produces a problematic byproduct, glycerol. Toda’s group has avoided the glycerol problem, but made their tests unrealistic by testing their acid catalyst on refined oil products rather than the raw material, said Smith.

Toda’s catalyst is easy to recycle, adding to its ‘green’ credentials. But while it is always useful to have a recyclable catalyst, said Smith, the biggest environmental benefit of biodiesel is not the catalyst, but the renewable vegetable oil.

‘The catalyst needs to be effective but it doesn’t need to be made from sugar,’ said Smith. He would like to see Toda’s catalyst compared with more acid catalysts, like aluminosilicates made from sand.

Foursprung, Biodiesel

Source: Royal Society of Chemistry

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Foursprung: New gadget for fresh air

If you’re vehicle often includes pets or cigarette smoke, your olfactory senses will love you muchly for getting one of these techlicious gadgets.

The dashboard Ionic Breeze keeps the air in your car clean and fresh. The device circulates air silently while trapping airborne particles like cigarette smoke and dust on a hidden, electrostatically charged ring. Plus, the ionizer reduces stale, lingering odors without any cover-up fragrances. Conveniently plugs into your dashboard power socket. Easy maintenance, just needs you to occasionally twist off the ring and wipe it clean with a tissue or cloth.

Foursprung, in-car, fresh, clean, air

Source: Macys

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Foursprung: Handheld traffic jams

At the Intelligent Transport Systems show in San Francisco this week, the company TrafficGauge showed off its latest product launch for the San Francisco bay area region. The TrafficGauge device is a simple handheld that shows traffic conditions on regional freeways. Because there is no standard for traffic congestion monitoring, TrafficGauge has to develop products for each regional market. It launched traffic monitoring devices in Seattle two years ago, and Los Angeles one year ago. The device is very simple, consisting of a black and white LCD pane laid over a static map showing local freeways. When there is congestion, black bars light up along the various routes, static for traffic moving 20 to 40 mph and blinking for traffic moving under 20 mph. It doesn't show traffic on surface streets and the only control is a backlight button for night viewing. The device doesn't even turn off, but its two AA batteries last for two to three months, according to the company. Traffic information is delivered over radio frequency. The device sells for $80, with a $5 per month subscription.

Foursprung, Handheld, Traffic, Jam

Source: CNET.com

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Hybrids: Hybrids and diesels get best fuel economy 2006

The EPA released its fuel-economy report for the 2006 model year, and hybrid or diesel engines power 9 of the 10 most fuel-efficient cars. It's not too much of a surprise, since hybrids are designed to capture wasted energy and put it back into the car, making an obvious improvement upon gasoline equivalents. Diesels have long been known for greater fuel efficiency over gasoline. Some people occasionally ask why there isn't a diesel hybrid to get the best of both worlds. It says that Audi worked on the idea some years ago, and it can only be speculated why there aren't diesel hybrids right now. It's possible that diesels are so efficient that any increase offered by hybridization is too small to justify adding the hybrid system.

Foursprung, Economy, Diesel, Hybrid

Source: CNET.com

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iPod: Wireless FM transmitter

Want to take your digital music to your car but not only there? With XtremeMac’s AirPlay2 you can do just that – broadcast your iPod tracks to any component that plays FM radio…excellent for sharing your favorite music with your friends, and at just about any location.
Of course, you don’t get the benefit of having your iPod charged at the same time (like most of the FM transmitters meant for your car offer,) but you sure get a lot more freedom of movement.

AirPlay2 is as thin and narrow as the iPod nano and features three programmable station presets that allow you to conveniently recall your clearest transmission frequencies. It also has a mono mode for better reception in crowded radio markets, and a large, bright display for easy viewing, day or night.
Energy is drawn in a minimal amount of power from the iPod, which allows for hours of playback time. It connects to the iPod through its Dock Connector and features an additional pass-though female Dock Connector for connecting chargers-enabling you to operate and charge the iPod at the same time.

Foursprung, iPod, Wireless, FM, transmitter, integration

Source: iPod Church

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iPod: Another car integration kit

Another way of integrating your beloved iPod with your car comes from Harman Kardon. Compared to other approaches display and control are installed in different places. The backlit LCD can be mounted anywhere where it can be easily viewed by the driver. The five-button controller device is operated like the familiar iPod control. It comes with three mounting bases, so it can be positioned in the most convenient place for easy access while driving.
The system is compatible to all docking iPods, including Mini, Nano and Photo.

Foursprung, iPod, car, integration

Source: Harman Kardon

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Parking: Need a spot? No problem any more!

A new XM Satellite Radio concept called “Dynamic Parking Information” shows the number of spaces available at a parking lot through a vehicle’s navigation system. The company, working with Nu-Metrics and InfoGation, displayed the concept at the ITS America World Congress here this week. XM Satellite Radio said the concept is the next logical step after providing drivers with continuously updated information about traffic and weather. The concept shows spaces available at designated parking facilities and uses color-keyed icons to indicate the percentage of available parking spaces. We’ll be interested to see if XM can manage to pull this one off.

Foursprung, parking, spot, finder

Source: Leftlane News

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Bluetooth: Car kit with rearview mirror integration

Seecode’s most recent Bluetooth handsfree car kit is definitely a little different, being that instead of sitting on your dashboard or between your seats, the VOSSOR is actually a rear view mirror that slips right over your mirror. Why, you may ask, would you need something like this? Well, why not talk through it while you’re checking out the traffic behind you? A 7-segment display shows Caller ID on the mirror before you take a call and the speaker is on the backside of the product, which Seecode believes makes your voice clearer. Can’t seem to find a price for this baby, and to be honest, I really don’t know why you’d spring for it in the first place, but can’t blame them for trying.


Foursprung, Bluetooth, rearview, mirror, car kit

Source: Gizmodo

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Police car burning evidence DVDs

WatchGuard is the first and currently also the only police in-car camera system that records directly onto DVD-Video discs that will play on regular DVD players. The system records up to 8 hours of high quality digital video on a single, inexpensive DVD disc that can be reused up to 1000 times.

The video is automatically burned to the DVD in a format similar to a Hollywood movie; with event based navigable chapters initiated by the emergency lights and siren, plus up to 10 minutes of pre-event video are injected into the beginning of each chapter. The DV-1 also includes an integrated ruggedized hard drive that provides the additional capabilities of automatically backing up DVDs and saving a second video stream at a near high-definition resolution that can be manually archived to the DVD after a very important event occurs.

The DV-1 is a digital solution that enables agencies to manage evidence much more efficiently and cheaper. It also solves the problems other digital solutions create by eliminating the need to transfer the evidence - twice. Our customers take their original evidence to court which bypasses all of the evidence admissibility issues.


Foursprung, police, in-car, digital, video, DVD

Source: PoliceOne.com

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Foursprung: Podcast available!

We are very proud to announce that our always-on, always-live podcast is now available!
Just drag the podcast icon in the sidebar into your iTunes and you can hear all our latest posts.

As another great service, providing true Foursprung, you can listen to each post individually! All you need to do is to click on the "Listen!" link below each news.

Enjoy listening to Foursprung!

Foursprung, Podcast

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BioDiesel: Best biodiesel conversion kit

Kevin Kelly is presenting the best biodiesel conversion kit (his opinion) from Frybid to turn your diesel car into an environment-friendly biodiesel car.

In the past five years, a number of companies have started up that offer kits to convert your diesel vehicle to run off of vegetable oil. The main players in the U.S. are Greasecar, Greasel, Neoteric, and Frybrid. Of these companies, Frybrid is the most innovative and quality minded of the lot. Frybrid was the first to introduce a really efficient heat exchanger and a microprocessor controller that will automatically switch to vegetable oil when the system is hot enough and which will not let you forget to switch back to diesel. The components of the Frybrid system were designed to handle the most challenging conditions, so that they could be installed in a Mercedes or a Mack truck. When we converted a school bus (for our traveling circus!) to biodiesel our original Greasecar system had to be largely replaced by a Frybrid one. The Frybrid system was more expensive than the competitors, and seems overbuilt, but it is much better.

Foursprung, Biodiesel

Source: The German Car Blog

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LED headlamp: Opens up new styling possibilities

Read over at The German Car Blog how Hella together with its partner Stanley is showing a dynamic cornering light using LED technology for the first time.

Together with its Japanese cooperation partner Stanley, lighting and electronics expert Hella is presenting an LED headlamp prototype with dynamic LED cornering light for the first time at the IAA 2005 in Frankfurt. In this full-LED headlamp the lighting specialists are realizing optical and lighting engineering innovations such as Cartoval* plastic lenses and a so-called "light curtain" using LED technology, which give vehicle stylists a whole range of new opportunities for front-end design. For the first time, a dynamic cornering light that manages without mechanical components has been realized.

Foursprung, LED

Source: The German Car Blog

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Navigation: Queen Elizabeth got new satellite navigation system

Having mastered text-messaging, Queen Elizabeth II has now taken another step into the 21st century. Apparently more than tired of hearing Philip say, “Queen Queen! Let’s go to the polo grounds!” Her Royal Highness has installed satellite navigation systems in all her vehicles. While she was spotted recently rollin’ in her personal Daimler with the nav system on, according to Buckingham Palace spokestypes, the queen primarily only takes the wheel on her private estates, preferring to leave the dirty public roads to her chauffeurs.

Britain's Queen Elizabeth II has reportedly splashed out on hi-tech satellite navigation for all her cars.

The 79-year-old monarch - who recently learned how to send text messages using mobile phones - was spotted using the equipment as she drove her swanky Daimler-Jaguar in Windsor Great Park last Sunday (06.11.05).

The systems have reportedly been fitted to all the Queen's cars.

An onlooker is quoted in Britain's The Sun newspaper as saying: "When she started the ignition the sat-nav came on.

"It's amusing the Queen has the same problems as the rest of us abut getting lost - but she's done something about it."

A spokesman for Buckingham Palace said: "The Queen enjoys driving but usually takes the wheel only on royal estates. The sat-nav systems will be of great use to her chauffeurs on the road."

It is not the first time the monarch has shown an interest in modern technology.

Earlier this year, it was reported she had asked one of her members of staff to get her an iPod.

It is believed she was convinced to buy the mini-iPod - which can store up to 1,500 songs - by son Prince Andrew, who is famed for his love of technology.

A royal source said at the time: "The Queen loves music and was impressed by how small and handy the iPod is.

"Obviously it is quite complicated to download songs but I'm sure Andrew will help out because he is a real dab hand with gadgets."

Foursprung, Navigation, Queen Elizabeth

Source: Monsters and Critics via Jalopnik, picture by Wikipedia Queen Elizabeth

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Foursprung: Rearview mirror LCD integration

Rostra Precision Controls provide a LCD integrated into a rearview mirror can feed from three sources, such as a navigation display, a rearview camera, and a backseat baby-monitor camera.

Foursprung, rearview, mirror, LCD, display, integration
Source: CNET.com

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Foursprung: GPS with MP3 playback

Dual offers a 12-channel GPS receiver unit with a 3.5-inch LCD screen. But it does a lot, offering navigation and media playback from SD cards. The knobs on the side light up to warn of upcoming turns when route guidance is working.

Foursprung, GPS, satellite, navigation, MP3

Source: CNET.com

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Foursprung: In-car video to go

A smart idea is the In-vehicle entertainment that no longer has to stay in-vehicle! Visteon provides an entertainment system containing a premium portable DVD player that you can detach from your vehicle and take with you. This system would probably convince a lot of drivers that in-car video is worth the money since they can also take it with them on a plane or to a hotel.

Foursprung, mobile, in-car, entertainment, video, DVD

Source: Visteon

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Foursprung: Intelligent in-car satellite navigation

The new AVIC-Z1 from Pioneer employs the most advanced navigation functions to date offering drivers dynamic route guidance, detailed mapping and valuable road information that cross the entire United States and Canada.
Smart feature is the learning capability: the AVIC-Z1 is the first system that “learns” frequently traveled roads by the driver and uses it for future route guidance. In other words, driving patterns are used to calculate suggested routes.
The system utilizes a 30-gigabyte hard drive to deliver information, entertainment and convenience to driving commuters.
Furthermore it integrates entertainment via DVD/CD/AM/FM/satellite radio and synchronization with portable devices like cellular phones and iPod players.

Voice recognition abd bluetooth capability are the features that this device makes the complete picture

Foursprung, intelligent, in-car, satellite, navigation, iPod, MP3

Source: Pioneer Electronics

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Foursprung: In-car multimedia PC

Early kinds of car PCs were built of parts intended for domestic use and systematically unstable without capability to resist extreme temperatures and vibration.

The new Infill from Maxan is equipped with industrial CPU boards which allows it to withstand the harsh environments inside a vehicle and maintain system stability.
With it automatically folding 7" touch-screen wide monitor it installs in the place of your car audio. Running on Windows XP with special media player software its main features are: Music Player, Movie Player, GPS Navigation, TV, Radio, Internet, plus all the functions of a desktop PC.

Foursprung, in-car, multimedia, pc

Source: INFILL

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Satellite navigation: Photorealistic display

Churchill Navigation is taking a different tack on in-car navigation: make it photorealistic and expensive. Soon to hit the market at around $7,000, it will typically be used in large vehicles such as RVs, where a larger monitor can show off its map detail.

The system provides 1 terabyte (1000 gigabytes) of data capacity for the satellite imagery of the entire world and aerial photography of the United States with a detail level from 1-meter to 6-inch resolution with seamless transition from satellite to aerial photo to road maps. Changeable camera angles allow views such as "flying 50 feet over the vehicle", or looking straight down on you as you drive.

Displays are available from 7" to 10.4" to 19", and sizes in between. Control of the system is by touch-screen or by separate keyboard and mouse.

Foursprung, photorealistic, satellite, navigation, in-car

Source: Churchill Navigation

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Foursprung: In-car satellite TV

In-car entertainment has come a long way since the in-dash turntables and AM radios of the 1950s. Today we have in-dash CD changers, DVD players, iPod adapters, even USB ports and flash memory that allow you to listen to your favorite music - and watch your movie collection - on the road.

Now you can leave your DVDs and videotapes at home and instead enjoy 135+ channels of live satellite TV programming and music...on the go.

Standing less than 5" high, KVH’s high-performance, groundbreaking TracVision A5 satellite TV antenna provides uninterrupted reception of satellite TV signals on open roads throughout the continental U.S.
TracVision A5 includes an automotive satellite receiver and the low-profile antenna easily integrates with any in-vehicle video system. The patented mounts securely either to your roof rack or directly to the roof and is built to withstand the rigors of the road.

Foursprung, in-car, satellite, TV, television, integration

Source: TheCarConnection

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LCD: New Ferrari display by Acer

The relationship between Ferrari and Acer continues, as Acer has announced 19-inch and 20-inch LCDs officially recognized by Ferrari for the Japanese market. Expect to pay a hefty penny for either model, as only 1,000 of each will only be produced. The F-19 is the 19-inch model with SXGA (1280 x 1024) resolution, brightness of 400cd/m2, 500:1 contrast ratio, and response speed of 8ms (grey-to-grey, as is the Japanese tradition). It also features integrated 2W stereo speakers. A 20-inch widescreen model is available with the F-20, which sports WSXGA+ (1680 x 1050) resolution, 300cd/m2 brightness, and a 800:1 contrast ratio. The speakers on this model are also kicked up to 5W each (watch out, that wattage has been known to blow people’s clothes off). The F-19 is expected to go for around $551 USD, and the F-20 for around $763 USD.

Foursprung, Acer, Ferrari, LCD

Source: Engadget

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Audi, VW: Why iPod? Connect your car radio to an USB stick!

Not having an iPod is hard enough but not being able to take any of your MP3 music with you on the road is worse.
For this there is an alternative from Solisto: if your car stereo is an original radio of VW, Audi, Seat and Skoda you just need this MP3-Player and a storage device which contains your MP3 files in a FAT16-formatted file system.

The device is installed easily via the connector for the CD changer and also controlled like a connected CD changer:
with "shuffe"-play Solisto will start playing songs in a random order. The button "Scan" on a radio will make Solisto play 10 seconds of the middle of each song. When switching off the radio, the Solisto will remember the current song and start playing back at that point after switching on the radio again.

Solisto features an USB interface, so nearly every storage device with such a connector can be used. Examples are the very comfortable USB sticks but also USB adaptors for different kinds of flash memory (SD, Compact Flash, Memory Card, ...) or even external hard disks.

Foursprung, Audi, VW, MP3, USB

Source: Solisto via http://www.GermanCarBlog.com

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Hummer: laptop computer for the wilderness

General Motors is another one in the row of auto makers providing a car brand labeled laptop computers capitalizing on the success of the Hummer with a laptop all the same. Built by Itronix, who make some pretty freaking ugly devices (which ought to fit perfectly with the supreme bustedest of all trucks), the laptop will have all the goodness of their other Windows-based machines, as well as an integrated GPRS/EDGE module—unexpectedly making it the second commercially available device in the US to feature integrated cellular wireless. The lappie will be available in black or silver with yellow, red, or pewter-gray trim for the ultimate in unnecessarily durable civilian ostentatiousness.

Foursprung, Hummer, laptop, computer

Source: Engadget

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Acer and Ferrari: New child of the joint laptop line

For all drivers and dreamers of the Maranello's sports car who want to work state-of-the-art Acer provides a new laptop computer from its Ferrari-themed product line.

The goods on the Acer 4000 include a supposed “inside and out” complete upgrade to the 3xxx series — with 15.4-inches TFT display, AMD Turion 64 Mobile chip and ATI mobility Radeon X700 graphics with 128MB DDR memory under the hood.
Further features are a gig of RAM, 100GB hard drive, DVD “super multi double layer drive” (marketing hyperbole included free of charge), 5-in-1 card reader, WiFi, Bluetooth, 4 USB 2.0 ports, S-video and DVI-D out, FireWire, and S/PDIF out.

Coming in a sleek black and grey chequer pattern, rather than the Ferrari Red of previous models, the black Ferrari stallion on the yellow shield takes pride and place on the top of the model. The top of the laptop has been made from carbon fibre and Acer believes it is the first to mass-produce carbon fibre for a laptop all just to give it greater strength. The inside sees a rubberised surface surround a slightly curved (5 degrees) keyboard. The rubberised top supposedly gives more grip when using the keyboard. As red may not be missing in something labeled with the black stallion he sides are coloured this way.

Foursprung, Acer, Ferrari, laptop, computer

Source: pocket-lint.co.uk

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iPod: All-in-one integration to your car

You have an iPod and want to take your music on the road?

FM radio transmitters and audio cassette adapters provide only poor sound quality, no iPod control via built in stereo control and no track information on the in-car stereo display. For charging the iPod is needed an extra solution and only very few auto manufacturers provide iPod integration directly from the factory.
For all digital music enthusiasts who are looking for complete iPod car integration with full CD-quality sound Neo Car Audio provides an easy to install solution including charging the iPod and using the buttons that normally control your CD player to access your music library. The track information is also shown on the display of your car stereo but with all this the display and controls of your iPod is still operational, so even passengers on the back seats can take the role of the DJ. (Decide yourself if this is a benefit...)
The Neo operates with all iPods from 3rd gen on, incl. iPod Nano and iPod Video and is available for appr. $200 without installation which can be easily done by yourself.
Foursprung, Apple, iPod, MP3, integration

Source: Mp3yourcar.com

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Foursprung: Motorcycle head-up display

Bikers who want to keep track of their speed, gears and even avoid radar traps can now do so without having to glance down, thanks to the SportVue MC2 heads-up display. Mike Werner of Bikes in the Fast Lane picked one up, and provides a thorough installation walkthrough and review of the $389 device. While you may need a mechanic to help you set it up, once it’s up and running, it gets the job done. Werner reports that he was able to easily and accurately keep track of his speed via the display, and that it was readable under all lighting conditions. Now if we could only get one of these to work with a bike-mounted GPS, we’d be sold (if, that is, we owned a motorcycle).

Foursprung

Source: Motorbiker.org via Engadget

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Dominik @ Foursprung

• Working in the automotive business for a premium car brand


• Co-Founder and chief editor of "Foursprung", the ultimate car gadgets blog


• Apple Macinstosh enthusiast, online junkie and lover of beautiful premium and luxury cars. Dangerous passion for electronic gadgets. Furthermore mostly harmless...

Foursprung

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Christian @ Foursprung

• Working in the automotive business for a premium car brand


• Founder and chief editor of "The German Car Blog", which is the most authority blog about the Audi and Volkswagen brand group


• Co-Founder and contributing editor of "Foursprung", the ultimate car gadgets blog

Foursprung

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Welcome to Foursprung! But...what is it?

What is Foursprung and what is all this buzz about?
Foursprung evolved out of the idea that there should be a car gadget blog, but we couldn't find any, and by dedication to Audi's famous claim "Vorsprung durch Technik", keeping in mind that 4 brands once formed Audi.

Foursprung is totally dedicated to great car gadgets, not just for Audi's, but always remembering the spirit which drives "Vorsprung".

But what is the "Vorsprung" spirit?

At the heart of every Audi lives our long standing slogan - Vorsprung durch Technik. These three words cleverly encapsulate the Audi philosophy of progress, innovation... our forward thinking ability to anticipate the needs of rapidly changing times by consistently creating cars that evolve with humankind.

But it's even more than a spirit, it's a philosophy.

Vorsprung... a flash of insight... ingenuity... and a leap of imagination.

Vorsprung thinks laterally to transcend beyond the continuous bombardment of convention.

Vorsprung does not rely on the tried and tested. It uses the established as a point of departure.

It is the breaking point and starting point... the miracle of inspiration.

Vorsprung lives in the genius minds of our designers, engineers and technicians. And beats in the heart of everyone and anyone associated with Audi.

Vorsprung can never be tied down because every second gives birth to ingenious ideas. Every minute sees the creation of superb new cars, cutting-edge design and ground-breaking technology. And so we stimulate the world into believing in the fresh.... the inspired...in the beauty of original thought.

Vorsprung is the anticipation of the wondrous. It is to revel in new-found power and embrace the future.

Vorsprung is universal. The courage to believe in the impossible. It is bravery and determination. When each day is a challenge, fresh with possibilities waiting to be shaped into the phenomenal.

Vorsprung is you... Courageous. Creative. Individual. Committed. Passionate. Bold. Vorsprung personifies the pioneer and the leader. It is the unintended power to inspire. The unspoken need to challenge.

Vorsprung is all of this.... and so much more.

And so is Foursprung! Welcome to the ultimate car gadget blog.

Foursprung

Source: Audi South Africa

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