Tesla has been clear that it’s not ready to let the cars take over all of the driving decisions just yet. To engage the autopassing function, for example, drivers will need to manually use the turn signal.

Source: safecarnews.com

The hardware must have been there all along, it’s amazing how much different Musk thinks than a regular car company. Others would not put a penny worth of extra electronics without charging the customer or the feature, let alone send software down to activate it without a visit to the dealership.

The search giant unveils the name of its next update for smartphones and tablets. Some key features include a new mobile payments system and some tricks for the company’s digital assistant, Google Now.

Source: www.cnet.com

Is this the one that includes a full IVI implementation similar to QNX, MS-Auto, or Linux (GENIVI)? I’ve not heard yet, but rumors always abound and Android Auto is already moving into production cars so we wonder if this is the next step.

While Haidar would like to see Vinli integrated in new cars before they hit the market, he is still bullish about value of an aftermarket product — particularly in the face of a new Department of Transportation regulatory framework that would require automakers to build vehicle to vehicle (V2V) communication capabilities into all new cars.

Source: www.buzzfeed.com

I suppose once DOT wireless standards (5.9Ghz DSRC) settle down, Vinli could go out and enable the aftermarket. Now that would make a big difference in safety if more than a few thousand new cars had the tech.

Apple engineer Frank Fearon wrote: “We would … like to get an understanding of timing and availability for the space, and how we would need to coordinate around other parties who would be using [it].”

Source: www.theguardian.com

Sources sound credible – the military records. It will be harder for Apple to keep secrets with a device that drives around on streets, regardless of barbed wire. Detroit figured how to paint on camouflage but you still knew it was a car!

It’s important as we move forward that regulators be certain that unlicensed users would not compromise the integrity of this vital safety initiative. We think the FCC should adopt a “do-no-harm” position until thorough testing is completed and all parties are certain that the spectrum can be shared without interference with safety critical systems.

Importantly, auto manufacturers are moving forward with our supplier partners, Cisco and Denso, to test a potential technological solution that will allow DSRC communications without harmful interference from unlicensed devices.

Source: safecarnews.com

If Cisco and Denso can prove that 5.9Ghz sharing will work, we may see some progress finally in deploying DSRC. The consumer segment that will gain from access to the spectrum using 802.11ac will pull things forward quickly so money can be made.

Commentary (and respectful debate) is invited on this critical issue in the development of Smart & Connected Vehicles . . .

Source: www.linkedin.com

This LinkedIn group and topic is consistently the most interactive with commentary. Great discussion – see discussion using the direct link to “Self Driving Cars” 

HGC Special Edition: Open Connected Cars, by Joel Hoffmann: News and updates about Automotive Open Source

Source: paper.li

Consider subscribing to this other great news site. 🙂

Imagine flying down the road at 20 mph on your electric skateboard when a hacker suddenly jams the breaks and throws you off.

Source: www.wired.com

I never know they could go this fast, just 5 MPH behind a Google autocar. I guess the only good news about this hack is that the “driver” can jump off, like many skateboard folks do all the time.

I hope all this security exposing research comes up with a solution common to all “vehicles” including real ones.

Local plans to build its own cars, but it could also end up working as a supplier for original-equipment manufacturers, some of whom have met with Rogers already. “One of them said, ‘This would be great for prototyping,’ ” Rogers says. “And I said, ‘Forget prototyping! This is how you make the car.’ ”

Source: www.popularmechanics.com

The “paint job” is a bit bumpy, but not making prototypes could save millions for cars that get crashed in NHTSA testing anyway. They used to print newspapers in central plants and ship them around, but the news was old by the time it arrived. Now they print on-the-spot. Imagine your dealership printing your car while you wait. 😉