Chrysler is to introduce a wide array of new, innovative and – in some cases – industry-first technologies, all designed to enhance the customer experience, the company announced at the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) World Congress.
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Included in the new technologies are an in-vehicle wireless internet connectivity system, rear cross path and blind spot monitoring systems [a similar system was recently announced by Ford in the US], a uniquely combined active transfer case and front-axle disconnect system, and a host of in-vehicle connectivity and entertainment systems that offer added customer benefit and convenience.
Advanced, in-vehicle wireless system will provide increased security and convenience far beyond anything available today. The system will provide high-speed data transfer and convenience, combining WiFi and 4G connectivity for a new level of wireless technology.
This system will transform the vehicle into a “hot spot” to deliver internet and e-mail access, and movie and music download capability directly to the vehicle.
While Chrysler will offer this technology in future model-year vehicles, an aftermarket in-vehicle “hot-spot” wireless internet capability is planned through Mopar this year.
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By GlobalDataRear Cross Path
Chrysler bills Rear Cross Path as an industry exclusive, though it seems very similar to Ford’s, warning drivers who are backing out of parking spaces of traffic moving toward their vehicle, but outside the driver’s field of vision. Drivers are notified of vehicle(s) crossing behind their vehicle via an illuminated icon on the sideview mirror, and with an audible chime. Rear Cross Path operates any time the vehicle is in reverse and will be available on the 2009 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan (which would give it minivan exclusivity for now).
Blind Spot Monitoring
The Blind Spot Monitoring system aids drivers when changing lanes if being passed by vehicles or when vehicles are positioned in the blind spot zone. Drivers are notified of a potential hazard via an illuminated icon on the sideview mirror, and if the turn signal is operated, an audible chime can act as an additional warning. Blind Spot Monitoring -which uses dual ultra- wideband radar sensors – is active any time the vehicle is moving forward.
This will also be available on the 2009 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan, a claimed minivan exclusive. just-auto has tried a similar system on a UK-specification Volvo in Ireland and found it to work very well.
Active Transfer Case and Front-axle Disconnect
Chrysler claims no other automaker offers Active Transfer Case and Front-axle Disconnect technologies together and says its unique system seamlessly transitions between rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive with no driver intervention. When all- wheel-drive is not required, the system automatically disconnects the front axle and opens the transfer case from the drivetrain to reduce friction and rotational mass.
The system provides optimal traction, performance, safety and an improvement in fuel economy of one mile per gallon.
It will be available on the 2009 Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger.
Rear-seat Swivel Screen
Rear-seat Swivel Screen enhances the rear-seat entertainment system with an exclusive swivel third-row screen to allow passengers facing to the rear of the vehicle, via the Swivel ‘n Go seating system, to view the screen.
The third-row rear-seat swivel screen is available on the 2009 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan.
Chrysler’s UConnect Bluetooth hands-free system now automatically downloads up to 1,000 phone book entries per phone. The enhanced system is available on numerous models.
