Telematics

Quotes:

"Even though consumer interest in telematics is increasing, a significant increase in consumer adoption for telematics services won't occur before 2005, according to GartnerG2, a research service of Gartner, Inc. A recent GartnerG2 survey found only 1.3 percent of U.S. households expect to choose telematics services in a new vehicle in the next 12 months."

"In May and June of 2002, GartnerG2 surveyed 5,835 U.S. adults (18 years and older) via mail to gauge their interest in telematics, and how they might use telematics today and into the future."

"'Consumers' primary interest in telematics continues to center around non subscription-based communication, safety and security needs that are directly related to the vehicle,'" said Thilo Koslowski, lead automotive analyst and research director for GartnerG2."

"The survey showed that nearly 50 percent of U.S. consumers are likely or very likely to get a telematics application in their next new vehicle that allows them to use their cell phone in a hands-free, voice-activated manner. Nearly two-fifths of consumers want a SOS button that connects to emergency services, and one-third want a vehicle-tracking application that will help recover their vehicle in case of theft. Internet and PC-like telematics applications continue to be in low demand as less than 10 percent of U.S. consumers are likely to get telematics applications that provide access to the Internet from the vehicle, send and receive e-mails or purchase products."

Source : "GartnerG2 Says Significant Uptake in Consumer Adoption for Telematics Services Won't Occur before 2005," October 2, 2002

"As automakers try to sell drivers on the benefits of telematics, broad acceptance of telematics will depend on the release of voice-based applications accessible by both drivers and passengers, according to GartnerG2, a research service from Gartner, Inc. Driver distraction as a consequence of telematics applications is leading to growing safety concerns among consumers, the government and auto manufacturers who fear lawsuits from accident victims. Many people feel that telematics features require the driver to hit too many buttons and pull their attention away from the road."

"'The most promising technology for minimizing driver distraction from telematics services is the voice-based user interface. Interacting and controlling a telematics program via voice allows drivers to focus their attention on operating the vehicle,' said Thilo Koslowski, lead automotive analyst and research director for GartnerG2. 'It will also help the telematics industry build consumer confidence and cultivate support from government regulators and safety advocates.'"

"'Passengers have been overlooked as telematics users in providers' marketing initiatives,' Koslowski said. 'To increase consumer adoption for telematics services, manufacturers should focus on all potential passengers and develop specific applications that are of value to each audience, such as Web-based games for children.'"

Source: "GartnerG2 Says Automakers Need to Offer Telematics User Interfaces That Are Voice-Controlled and Allow Passengers to Use the Service," May 15, 2002