All-New Mazda3 to Offer Next-Generation Car Connectivity System 'MZD Connect'

HIROSHIMA, JAPAN – Sept 24, 2013: Mazda Motor Corporation today announced that the All-New Mazda3 will feature a next-generation car connectivity system, MZD Connect, when it goes on sale in Australia in the first quarter of 2014.

The new system will increase the scope of driving pleasure and engender a deeper relationship between car and driver. To enable the driver to enjoy the wide range of content on offer while keeping their attention focused on the road ahead, Mazda has developed a brand new Human Machine Interface (HMI), based on its unique Heads-Up Cockpit concept. As the amount of information presented to drivers behind the wheel increases, the new HMI creates an environment in which the driver is consistently looking at the road ahead and can concentrate on the safe operation of the vehicle.

One of the functions available through MZD Connect is access to the Aha™ by HARMAN web content platform for automobiles (Aha). Mazda is the first automaker to finalise a global licensing agreement with Aha, allowing customers to access the service in any country in which Aha is available.

Ryuichi Umeshita, General Manager of Mazda’s Product Division, commented, “Partnering with Aha on a global basis is a big step for Mazda in delivering on its commitment to offer customers all over the world new dimensions of driving pleasure and convenience by safely connecting them to the internet while behind the wheel.”

David Slump, HARMAN's Executive Vice President and President of Automotive Services, said, “The service we provide to our customers offers consistent display and operation of a huge variety of content. We are very pleased that people are coming to appreciate the safety benefits of this system.”

By simply downloading a free smartphone application, Aha provides access to over 40,000 cloud-based audio and information presets such as internet radio, podcasts, audiobooks, Facebook and Twitter feeds and various location-based services. All of this content can be accessed through a single, safe and intuitive interface. Aha has regional agreements providing services to more than ten auto brands in over 50 countries, focusing mainly in Europe and North America.

MZD Connect
A next-generation car connectivity system that enables you to safely enjoy the convenience of your smartphone while in your car.

Enables the use of a variety of website applications and services such as Aha by linking with your smartphone

The in-vehicle software can be updated to support additional functions and evolving smartphone operating systems so that it will never go out-of-date.

A flexible hardware structure featuring a module unit for each function allows the system to meet a wide range of needs flexibly.

Moving forward, the range of applications and services available with the system will be expanded.

Next-Generation HMI
A next-generation HMI developed in line with Mazda’s unique Heads-Up Cockpit concept which places the highest priority on safety and helps drivers to maintain a stable driving position and concentrate on driving safely, even while dealing with a variety of information.

The human-centred design aims to minimise visual, cognitive and manual distraction.

The simple cockpit has different zones for different types of information.

7-inch centre display sits atop the dashboard making it easy to see without lowering the eyes.

Command controller is designed to be operated entirely by feel.

Active Driving Display projects important information such as vehicle speed and turn-by-turn navigation above the meter hood.

Functions can be controlled voice-recognition.