Volvo Car UK has imprved further its top range of cars with the addition of Android Auto.

• Android Auto joins existing Apple CarPlay smartphone integration
• Allows users to access their Android phone’s functions directly from the car’s Sensus infotainment system
• Available now on all S90, V90, V90 Cross Country and XC90 models

Volvo Car UK has further improved its in-car connectivity with the introduction of Android Auto smartphone integration to its range-topping 90 series models.

Android Auto, which is now available as part of a new Smartphone Integration package that also includes Apple CarPlay, allows users of Android smartphones to connect their device directly to their Volvo’s Sensus media system. 

A wide range of Android-optimised apps – including Google Maps and Google Play Music – are then available directly via the car’s touch screen. Users can also make and receive calls, and send and receive text messages using Android Auto. 

Alternatively, these functions can be controlled using the car’s or the phone’s sophisticated voice control system, so users can stay connected while keeping their eyes safely on the road at all times.

Thanks to the touch screen’s large size and portrait layout, the Android Auto apps are displayed in the bottom section of the screen, leaving the top of the screen free to display the car’s other main functions, further enhancing the system’s ease of use.

Jon Wakefield, Managing Director of Volvo Car UK, said: “It’s more important than ever for our customers to stay connected while on the move. Our Apple CarPlay integration was already the best in the business, and the introduction of Android Auto brings our class-leading smartphone integration to a whole new audience.”

Smartphone Integration includes a second USB socket and is available now on the S90, V90, V90 Cross Country and XC90, priced at £300. Existing owners of these models (those built after April 2016) who already have Apple CarPlay can benefit from a complimentary upgrade to Smartphone Integration as part of their car’s routine servicing schedule at an authorised Volvo dealership.

Android Auto is available on any Android smartphone running 5.0 (Lollipop) or higher.

For more information on the Volvo range and Android Auto, please visit www.volvocars.com/uk/about/our-innovations/connected-car/smartphone-integration

MG Motor's has confirmed its involvement as part of the CEN TC278/WG15 intelligent transport systems working group.

With just 18 months to go until the introduction of mandatory in-car emergency call (eCall) systems for all new type approval vehicles sold within the European Union, MG Motor UK has confirmed its involvement as part of the CEN TC278/WG15 intelligent transport systems working group.

Through Guillaume Honore – Telematics Engineer at the SAIC Motor Technical Centre (SMTC), which is based at MG’s Longbridge site in Birmingham – the iconic British automotive marque will play a key role in the ongoing development of lifesaving eCall technologies across Europe.

As one of just sixty global members, only seven of whom are based in the UK, Guillaume will represent MG and the wider British automotive industry within the steering group, exchanging knowledge, best practice and industry experience, as well as consulting on the wider capabilities of in-car emergency technologies.

Alongside managing the preparation of standards in the run-up to eCall’s legislative roll-out across Britain, Guillaume will help to guide the integration of other state-of-the-art features into eCall capability, as well as work to identify additional benefits offered by cellular network connectivity.

Speaking about his involvement, Guillaume commented: “Being named as an expert within the CEN TC278/WG15 working group is a real honour.

“For MG, being part of the platform will help us to maintain our position as a forward-thinking automotive business, continually looking to identify new technologies and industry-leading capabilities.” 

Matthew Cheyne, Head of Sales and Marketing at MG,added: “Introduced to improve safety and reduce emergency response times, eCall technology is a huge progression within the industry. Mandatory fitting will assist emergency services teams at the scene of an accident, helping to save the lives of countless motorists.

“Being involved in the EU steering group, through Guillaume’s expertise, is a significant achievement for MG, and one which will see us play a key role in the ongoing development of in-car technology standards.

“Guillaume has championed similar technology programmes for a number of other high-profile automotive manufacturers, making his experience and proficiency an invaluable asset. Bringing this knowledge to MG, while continuing his work as part of the group, is a huge opportunity for us to lead the way in technological capability, demonstrating our ambitions for the future.”

From March 2018, all new type approval cars sold within the European Union must be fitted with an approved eCall system. In the event of an accident, the system will transmit essential data – including type of vehicle, fuel used, time of accident and location – directly to the emergency services.

The European Commission estimates that, once eCall technology is implemented across the continent, hundreds of lives could be saved every year.