Volvo

Volvo Cars has introduced an updated onboard navigation and ‘infotainment’ system, called Sensus Connect, that makes parking payment and similar tasks easier for drivers.

Drivers can use the new cloud-based service to find and pay for parking from inside their car with the Park&Pay system.

Based on car2infrastructure communication, the application highlights a number of new possibilities when the car begins to communicate with its surroundings.

The system includes a navigation service that allows the drivers to set destinations through their mobile device and get information about their surroundings through Wikipedia.

"Sensus allows the driver to turn the entire car into a Wi-Fi hotspot."

Sensus Connect also allows drivers to pre-cool or pre-heat the vehicle remotely; and have an easy access to several digital radio stations.

Volvo Cars connectivity brand manager David Holecek said: "Technology should make your life easier and that’s why we listened carefully to our customers when creating Sensus Connect.

"Sensus offers the optimal combination of input and output methods and allows the driver to turn the entire car into a Wi-Fi hotspot for all of their connected devices."

The updated Sensus Connect will be available on-board all new Volvo car models beginning in May 2014.

Users who already have Sensus Connect will be offered an update for the system.

According to the company, the 2014 Volvo Sensus solutions will feature entertainment, navigation, interface and connectivity among other services.

Image: Volvo Cars’ Sensus Connect delivers cloud-based apps and connected services. Photo: courtesy of Volvo Cars.