SEAT says it is undertaking an ambitious plan to prioritise in-car connectivity across all of its models, including a three-in-one solution that enables Apple and Android compatibility.
SEAT says that several new models, starting with the New Ibiza CONNECT and closely followed by New Alhambra, Leon MY16 and Toledo MY16, will be available with Full Link, SEAT's, three-in-one connectivity solution.
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Encompassing Apple Car Play for the iPhone user, Android Auto and Mirror-Link for Android devices, the solution is claimed as a first in the global car market because it removes fears about current and future compatibility and "allows users to access many of their phone functions and apps safely on the move".
The brand has also introduced SEAT DriveApp, working alongside Full Link to support easy vehicle maintenance, eco driving guidance and traffic alerts.
The New Ibiza, launched in May at the Barcelona Motor Show, is the first model to benefit from the advanced technology which SEAT says means it takes "a giant leap forward in the race to eradicate compromise from connectivity".
Full Link comes as standard on CONNECT, SEAT's state-of-the-art infotainment system, together with a SAMSUNG Galaxy A3 smartphone. The new system costs GBP385 (US$588) on SE models and above and includes an upgraded infotainment system with a 6.5" colour touchscreen.
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By GlobalDataWith Full Link, designed in-house by SEAT engineers, the full roster of smartphones running the latest iOS and Android software "will connect without hassle".
The software puts the phone's features at the driver's fingertips; essential functions, like satellite navigation from certified apps and Google Maps can now be used safely via the car's touch screen, it is claimed. Apps which have been classified as safe are being added regularly, including Spotify and many more, SEAT says.
Full Link addresses the need to communicate safely on the move. Temptation to use a handheld device is eradicated, as drivers benefit from the system's read-out function, which delivers messages (emails, Tweets and Facebook posts), news and social media streams audibly.
Drivers can also use its simple 'Voice to reply' function as well as 'Gesture control' which allows drivers to perform simple actions such as messaging or phone calls with a simple finger swipe across the car's infotainment screen, without taking eyes off the road.
In tandem with Full Link, SEAT DriveApp sends condition-based maintenance alerts to the driver's smartphone, prompting important regular checks like tyre pressures. It can even show the closest SEAT dealer and any special offers on the item which needs replacing. Likewise, DriveApp's traffic alerts help to steer drivers to the most effective route, and a 'Challenger' feature gamifies eco driving with a series of fun tests. Gamification promotes a gentle competitiveness as groups of company drivers can be encouraged to compete for the best individual score. It can even check your heartbeat as you drive.
As well as developing its own solutions, SEAT signed an agreement with technology giant, SAMSUNG, in March to develop technological solutions to provide total connectivity across its full range of cars.
SEAT head of fleet and business sales, Peter McDonald, said: "SEAT is striving, and achieving, excellence in several areas that our customers consider to be vital. We aren't content scoring highly when it comes to style, reliability and quality alone, we are now leading the way in connectivity, too."
"Full Link is a demonstration in how to seamlessly integrate, and take full advantage of smartphone features whether you're tech savvy or not. Any driver will undoubtedly benefit in terms of safety and minimising time lost, not to mention improved vehicle maintenance and driver behaviour."
Roll out of the technology begins with the New Ibiza and New Alhambra – launched in the UK later in 2015 – with more new SEATs set to benefit from Full Link and SEAT DriveApp in 2016.
