Pioneer Develops Rearview Mirror Telematics Unit With LTE Connectivity
Pioneer is focusing on "connected cars" and has developed a rearview mirror telematics unit with LTE connectivity, allowing it to access cloud services. The unit is continuously connected to the network via LTE line, allowing the the driver to use the Voice-Activated Drive Agent Service incorporated in the unit for obtaining a variety of real-time information needed for driving, such as information on facilities, traffic information, weather information, and news, and for using the navigation functions.
The unit also comes with a built-in front-view camera with wide-angle lens, which allows the unit to function as a driving recorder. The camera also enables the unit to provide Safe Driving Support Service by detecting, through unique image-sensing technology, crossing lane or when the vehicle ahead starts moving, and by detecting unsafe driving with a built-in sensor.
It also functions as a Wi-Fi access point, allowing the use of Wi-Fi compatible terminals in the vehicle, such as tablets and game consoles.
The unit is also ready for the installation of dedicated applications, which allows it to be used for a wide range of business purposes. Examples include fleet management with the use of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), built-in sensor, and communication function.
The unit can be mounted on the rearview mirror without being constrained by the dashboard shape or space. It comes with an LCD with a 5-inch capacitive touch panel.
Pioneer plans to commercialize the product within the current fiscal year.
Pioneer will provide information services by combining such in-car units with a large amount of data useful for drivers that is analyzed at its Mobile Telematics Center (cloud infrastructure for automobiles), and with the Voice-Activated Drive Agent technology jointly developed with NTT DOCOMO.