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Infiniti Previews I30 Concept Car as Rolling Showcase of Technology

8 January 1998

Infiniti Previews I30 Concept Car as Rolling Showcase of Technology

       I30 Features New Microsoft Windows CE-Based Auto PC for Advanced
                     In-car Information and Entertainment

    LAS VEGAS, Jan. 8 -- Infiniti, the luxury division of Nissan
Motor Corporation U.S.A., today announced a sneak preview of its I30
"Executive Luxury Special Edition (ELSE)," a concept car coming in February
which will showcase the most advanced mobile office technology soon to be
available on the market, featuring state-of-the-art connectivity,
communication, entertainment and performance.
    At the heart of the I30 Preview vehicle is Microsoft Corp's new Auto PC
in-dash automotive computing system, the latest member of its PC Companion
line of products.  Powered by Windows CE, the Auto PC takes the core Windows
CE 2.0 operating system and adds speech recognition, a sporty "car-stereo-
sized" visual interface and other car-oriented features to create an
information and entertainment device for the automobile.  Microsoft is
expected to be the first software company to bring a widely supported in-car
computing platform to market when the Auto PC becomes available in
spring/summer.
    In the I30 Preview concept car, an enhanced Auto PC-based device has been
integrated into a single Clarion AM/FM radio/CD head-unit.  It utilizes voice-
activation to send and receive e-mail, dial a cell phone, navigate to a
specific destination, locate a restaurant or hotel, ask for traffic and
weather conditions or change the musical selection on the stereo.  All of this
is accomplished through a system that allows drivers easy access to
information and entertainment while keeping their eyes safely on the road and
hands on the wheel.
    "The Infiniti I30 Preview car is an exciting example of how the most
advanced technological innovations can be integrated to make the luxury
consumer's driving experience more convenient, productive and enjoyable," said
Brad Bradshaw, vice president, marketing, Nissan Motor Corporation U.S.A.  "We
hope it provides a glimpse into the future of the automobile."
    "With broad industry support from companies like the Infiniti Division of
Nissan, the Auto PC platform will change the way consumers communicate while
in their automobiles," said Harel Kodesh, general manager, consumer appliance
group at Microsoft.  "We are pleased that the I30 concept car will incorporate
the Auto PC platform -- bringing information and entertainment to automobile
drivers and passengers in an entirely new, innovative way.  This will allow
drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road."
    The Infiniti I30, with more than 73,000 units sold since its introduction
in April 1995, has led Infiniti Division's sales, accounting for more than
half of the Division's total sales volume.  Noted for its flagship styling,
space and performance for around $30,000, the I30 has proven popular with
consumers due to its balance of luxury and performance.
    Infiniti, the luxury division of Nissan Motor Corporation U.S.A., is
supported by a network of more than 145 retailers.  Customer satisfaction has
always been a key component of Infiniti's commitment to customer service.
Infiniti introduced the Total Ownership Experience (TOE)(R) customer care
philosophy as part of its continuing dedication to providing exceptional
consumer treatment and service.  With TOE, Infiniti is leading the way into
the next century.
    Product and company names herein may be the trademarks of their respective
owners.
    Or visit the Nissan Online News Bureau at http://www.nissannews.com

SOURCE  Nissan Motor Corporation