One option Ford is now considering to avoid that pricey option is to adopt Bluetooth enabled, non-embedded cell phone technology.
"It won't be embedded CDMA technology; it will also help the customer because they won't have to have an additional telematics bill," Reuter said.
Such a system is currently embodied in DaimlerChrysler's "U-Connect" approach, using a special Johnson Controls-supplied electronics module and in-car systems connecting a Bluetooth-equipped cell phone with the vehicle's stereo speakers, mirror-mounted controls from Gentex and voice processing software from IBM. To be introduced on the Chrysler Pacifica, the system is meant to be device- and service-agnostic; customers will be able to accept AT&T service, or bring their own cell phone service into the car as long as their phone carries a Bluetooth antenna, or "dongle."
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