Smart Access In-Car Cloud Telematics Service

By Christopher A. Sawyer

Clarion says it created its Smart Access Cloud Telematics Service with help from the Hitachi Group in order to provide drivers with a more comfortable, safe and convenient driving environment. The service will be implemented globally in stages, with service to Japan and North America launching in June.

The Japanese electronics company is hoping to increase its in-car information business. This includes providing telematics services through OEM and aftermarket devices, especially as smartphone growth continues to increase. It has become the dominant computing platform globally.

Smart Access functions include smartphone connectivity, and VRM (Vehicle Relational Management) and CRM (Customer Relational Management) services. The former secures the car through maintenance and safety management as well as probe information. CRM continuously provides this information to the customer for his/her protection. In addition, the system will be able to access the E-Call emergency system, which is expected to go global in the future.

Smart Access is designed to function not only as a proprietary telematics system for Clarion, but as a common structure for automakers. It says newly developed in-vehicle equipment like navigation systems will be equipped with a Smart Access connection interface. Not only is it hoped that this will increase the value of these systems to automakers and consumers, frequent updating will be possible through the interface. For the automakers, this interface will be open-source in order to allow cars to share information about traffic, road condition, weather, etc.