VEHICLES HAVE become the new frontier for the information technology industry. Drivers, engines, passengers, drive trains and even the bodywork are in constant contact through a vast array of switches and systems. One of the main partners in the development of a new affordable telematics system by Fiat Auto and Microsoft was Magneti Marelli. Giuseppe Rosso, CEO of Magneti Marelli Sistemi Elettronici tells Ed Richardson of Automotive Industries about some of the developments.

AI: Co-developed by Microsoft and Fiat Auto, the new telematics system is a real breakthrough; please describe Magneti Marelli's contribution

Rosso: Magneti Marelli participated in the development of the Microsoft platform "Windows Mobile for Automotive"(WMfA) including Magneti Marelli's proprietary "dead-reckoning algorithms" for positioning, eliminating the need for a gyroscope. Using the WMfA platform, Magneti Marelli also participated in the development of the telematics product for Fiat's specific needs, and has recently started production.

AI: As Magneti Marelli is the components arm of the Fiat Group building the devices, will this experience give you opportunities to manufacture the new telematics system for other vehicle makers?

Rosso: Magneti Marelli Group is owned by Fiat, but supplies all the major car manufacturers throughout the world. Several major European car makers have adopted Magneti Marelli telematics and navigation systems.

Magneti Marelli Sistemi Elettronici is able to combine in a compact, modular and integrated architecture functions relating to vehicle management, navigation, multimedia, and connectivity with portable devices. Our experience in participating in the development of the WMfA platform and in Fiat's telematics application is already opening up new opportunities with other vehicle manufacturers. Other potential applications are already under development, and we are confident that the WMfA platform has an exciting future.

AI: What other expertise does Magneti Marelli have?

Rosso: Magneti Marelli infotainment systems integrate: GPS navigation, hi-fi radio, CD player (compatible with MP3), GSM dual band telephone, advanced Voice Recognition and "text-to-speech" functionality, RDS-TMC, WAP Connection, SMS, CD-changer management and services such as breakdown assistance and Emergency call, where in the event of an accident the emergency services are automatically alerted of the vehicle's precise position.