Try checking some of the reviews for these systems.  From the ones I have
read the general view was 'yuck', over kill, near worthless, and so on.  If
such systems are to be implemented and it appears that auto makers think 'we'
need them then it seems to me the very first thing the auto makers need to do
is ALL of them agree on a Standardize Interface.  Of course I would like to
see auto makers standardize a lot of things.  From how the dash instruments
are layed out, to where the auto is fueled.  Ever spent several very
embarrassing moments trying to find the gas cap?  Or turn off or on the
windshield wipers?
------------------( Forwarded letter 1 follows )---------------------
Date:         Wed, 12 Mar 2003 16:01:39 -0600
To: [log in to unmask]
From: Greg.Cagle[gregc]@gregcagle.com
Sender: [log in to unmask]
Reply-To: Greg.Cagle[gregc]@gregcagle.com
Subject: Re: [HP3000-L] OT: A new way to crash your computer

 Wirt Atmar wrote:
>
> German luxury automobile maker BMW rolled out its new 7 Series line of cars
> last year with arguably the industry's most advanced telematics, or car
> computing systems, that also use Microsoft's software.
>
> Using a central knob, drivers can control the BMW's navigation, climate and
> entertainment systems through a display built into the dashboard.

Audi has just come out with a similar system. According to a
spokesperson, it runs "some form of Unix." BMW's i-drive runs Windows
CE.

- Greg (BMW owner, not a 7-series, though)
--
Greg Cagle
gregc at gregcagle dot com

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