9 June 2010

iPads in your glovebox

The Apple iPad has caught the imagination of the auto industry in a substantial way, which may make the device ubiquitous.

When Hyundai launches its new Equus top-end sedan in the US, it will come complete with an iPad loaded with the owner's manual in electronic form.

Volkswagen is putting its lifestyle magazine on an iPad app which will allow the user to view product images in 360 degrees of rotation, as well as checking out VW news and promotions.

The financial arm of Mercedes-Benz is to supply its sales people with iPads that can access their back-office system MB Advantage. The user will, among other things, be able to use the device to check a potential customer's credit rating and process a credit application.

And a US electric car startup, Coda Automotive, plans to include an iPad with its upcoming EV instead of a paper owner's manual.