One of the many players looking to capture a piece of the telematics market is Sprint PCS. Recently, the U.S. wireless network has entered into an alliance with Jaguar to deliver wireless voice and data communications to all 2001 model year Jaguar cars.

Under the terms of the agreement, Sprint PCS will become the sole wireless network provider for the Deluxe Communications Package available on Jaguar S-type vehicles and will be one of three providers offering optional communications packages for all other Jaguar vehicles.

• In-dash GPS navigation system

• Calculates the vehicle’s position.
• Provides voice and visual guidance to the driver’s final destination
• Combines Jaguar Assist that provides direct access to road assistance and emergency messaging.
• Provides automated response in the event of airbag deployment.

• Voice-Activated Control System

• First introduced in the 2000 S-TYPE Jaguar.
• Basic voice commands to operate the primary climate controls, audio system. and cellular telephone.
• Uses continuous speech commands.

• Sprint PCS Voice Command

• Nationwide network-based, voice-activated dialing and information service.
• Uses any Sprint PCS handset, such as the Motorola Timeport P8167.
• Voice commands enable drivers to access information or make a call using various speech-enabled, voice-independent functions.

As the cost for wireless technology comes down, we will, probably, see a demand for telematics services for the mid- to low-end car lines, but it is not likely to be anytime soon.