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Cloud computing could transform car interiors:
The Evos plug-in hybrid concept vehicle is Ford's showcase for cloud-based technology.
(Credit:
Ford)
Storing data outside vehicles could reduce clutter inside.
Access to the "cloud," through a wireless Internet connection in a car, has automakers thinking out of the box.
Potential features go far beyond present uses of in-car Internet access. With the expanded data storage available, a car could become a highly customized personal assistant connected to the owner's home, smartphone, and computer.
For example, a car could automatically tailor ride and handling characteristics for an individual driver on an individual route, instead of having the driver choose from a limited number of modes such as "sport" or "comfort." Or it could use the owner's personal calendar to have the interior heated or cooled before he or she gets into the car.
Depending on the cloud for memory storage, rather than putting vast amounts of memory storage in the vehicle, could enable such functions, automakers say.
"Having to carry all that memory in the vehicle wouldn't be practical," said Paul Mascarenas, Ford Motor's chief technical officer.
Storing data in the cloud also could save precious space in the instrument cluster and the center stack. According to General Motors, for instance, most luxury... [Read more]
The Evos plug-in hybrid concept vehicle is Ford's showcase for cloud-based technology.
(Credit:
Ford)
Storing data outside vehicles could reduce clutter inside.
Access to the "cloud," through a wireless Internet connection in a car, has automakers thinking out of the box.
Potential features go far beyond present uses of in-car Internet access. With the expanded data storage available, a car could become a highly customized personal assistant connected to the owner's home, smartphone, and computer.
For example, a car could automatically tailor ride and handling characteristics for an individual driver on an individual route, instead of having the driver choose from a limited number of modes such as "sport" or "comfort." Or it could use the owner's personal calendar to have the interior heated or cooled before he or she gets into the car.
Depending on the cloud for memory storage, rather than putting vast amounts of memory storage in the vehicle, could enable such functions, automakers say.
"Having to carry all that memory in the vehicle wouldn't be practical," said Paul Mascarenas, Ford Motor's chief technical officer.
Storing data in the cloud also could save precious space in the instrument cluster and the center stack. According to General Motors, for instance, most luxury... [Read more]
