Lexus Enform Will Make Cars Speak And Spam

Gandalf · January 24, 2009

Lexus is set to reach out to its customers in a more personal way this year. Selected Lexus cars for 2009 will come installed with a new system called "Lexus Insider", a part of the Enform Gadget Package. The system will be used to convey voice messages from the company to the vehicles, like tips and suggestions, but Lexus has decided to leave any marketing related messages out for now.

Full Story/Pics Here

aido · January 24, 2009

I saw something about this on Slashdot the other week, seems quite interesting but I wonder how long it will last before it's full on spam?

http://it.slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=09/01/08/2038216

http://www.usatoday.com/money/autos/2009-0...lking-car_N.htm

I also wonder how easy it would be to intercept the data stream, reverse engineer it and thenbroadcast your own messages - that could be quite funny

If it's based around a SIM card though which I'd guess would be a distinct possibility it takes all the fun out of it!

Geoffers · January 24, 2009

Not keen on the spam receiving side of things. Possibly an important message at most, or a quick comms with Lexus to analyse any fault codes on my request.

Do like the idea of these though:

"The system features four different safety and security elements: Automatic Collision Notification (ACN), an Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), Stolen Vehicle Location (SVL), and Roadside Assistance. Using embedded cellular and GPS, it can signal help if there's an airbag deployment or a severe rear-end collision. If the system isn't triggered automatically, the Emergency Assistance Button (SOS) can be used to contact the help centre manually. If the car is stolen it can be tracked. The system also includes Roadside Assistance through the SOS button when the driver needs mechanical assistance."

Lance · February 5, 2009

I remember SAAB is the US had a system called On-Star. Was much the same thing. Had a button on the dashboard which connected you to a control centre which could pinpoint your location. Was useful when one of the demo cars broke down.

http://www.onstar.com/