Mercedes-Benz, Motorola Offer Drivers Fully Integrated Digital Portable Phone
20 December 1999
Mercedes-Benz, Motorola Are First to Offer Drivers Fully Integrated Digital Portable PhoneNew Digital/Analog StarTAC Available on Mercedes-Benz Model-Year 2000 Vehicles
SCHAUMBURG, Ill., Dec. 17 -- Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) is the
first auto maker to offer U.S. drivers a fully integrated digital cellular
phone system. Mercedes-Benz and Motorola have teamed up to offer
drivers a fully integrated digital StarTAC portable phone. One of the
smallest and lightest wireless phones on the market today, the dual-mode
digital/analog StarTAC is now available on all model-year 2000 Mercedes-Benz
vehicles.
The digital StarTAC integrated phone uses the most advanced digital
cellular technology to reduce background noise, manage calls more efficiently,
and increase security and network capacity. The new phone also offers a dual
mode for analog operation in places where digital is not yet available.
"This digital phone offers our drivers the security, convenience and total
accessibility that they demand, plus it upholds the standards for high quality
and new, useful technology that they expect from us," said Ken Enders, vice
president of marketing of MBUSA. "We are proud to be the first car company to
offer our U.S. clients the most advanced in-vehicle digital phones on the road
today."
"Motorola joins Mercedes-Benz in its commitment to bring U.S. drivers the
best," said Marios Zenios, corporate vice president and general manager,
Motorola Telematics Communications Group. "Together, we will continue to
provide Mercedes-Benz drivers with smart communications systems that improve
their driving experiences, whether it's the latest in digital wireless phones
like StarTAC or added safety and security options such as the Tele Aid
telematics system MBUSA launched in January 1999."
Because the digital StarTAC is so deeply integrated with all of the
vehicle's electronic systems, drivers with this phone are offered several
advanced features, including:
-- Memory synchronicity -- allows phone book and other data to
automatically upload from the phone into the vehicle's auto system
display. Drivers no longer need to manually upload memory data.
-- Multi-function dashboard and steering wheel control -- so drivers can
make calls using the in-dash display and steering wheel controls that
are fully synchronized with the phone. This allows drivers to keep
their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.
-- Integrated radio features -- help eliminate distraction by
automatically muting the radio and pausing the CD or cassette player.
-- Voice Recognition Capabilities -- on some models, allow phone calls to
be managed through simple verbal commands. This feature is an
available option on all S-Class sedans, E-Class sedans and wagons, CLK
coupes and convertibles, CL coupes, and SL coupe/roadsters.
When connected to the vehicle, the fully integrated digital StarTAC phone
uses the vehicle's external antenna for stronger signaling and better
reception, and offers hands-free audio through vehicle speakers and integrated
microphones. The deep integration of the phone coupled with pre-wiring also
makes the phone easier to install and service than previous systems.
The digital StarTAC phone also is packed with special dialing and
messaging features, such as a built-in phone book to hold up to 99 names and
numbers as well as a "smart button" for one-button calling, menu access and
feature selection.
Plus, the portable handset lifts out to go anywhere with its owner, and a
discreet VibraCall(TM) alert quietly notify users of incoming calls when
they're carrying the phone. The Digital StarTAC integrated phone is available
for CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) or TDMA (Time Division Multiple
Access) service.
Mercedes-Benz USA, a DaimlerChrysler company, is headquartered in
Montvale, New Jersey and employs approximately 1,500 people in 20 locations
across the U.S. Through a nationwide network of over 300 retailers,
Mercedes-Benz USA sold 170,245 vehicles in the U.S. during 1998, a 39 percent
increase over the previous year, setting the highest sales volume ever in its
history. Currently ten percent ahead of last year, the company expects to set
a new sales record in 1999.
Motorola is a global leader in providing integrated communications
solutions and embedded electronic solutions. Sales in 1998 were
$29.4 billion. Motorola's Telematics Communications Group (TCG) is part of
the company's Integrated Electronic Systems Sector (IESS), a leading provider
of advanced electronic products and systems for customers integrating
electronics into their products. Motorola IESS solutions provide the
brains -- the DigitalDNA(TM) -- that make electronic systems smart, powerful
and easy to use. Motorola IESS designs and manufactures electronic solutions
for automotive, communications, imaging, manufacturing systems, computer,
consumer and industrial markets.
