Mercedes-Benz First to Offer Motorola V60 Hands-Free Phone System

ELK GROVE VILLAGE, Ill. and MONTVALE, N.J., Oct. 30 -- With over a decade of experience featuring Motorola hands-free in-car phone systems, Mercedes-Benz will become the first automaker to offer the Motorola V60 integrated hands-free phone system, which offers many new conveniences for consumers. Identified by its sleek, anodized aluminum shell, the elegantly designed Motorola V.Series(TM) 60c phone system is expected to be available through authorized Mercedes-Benz dealers beginning in early December. The new phone can be activated on most national CDMA and TDMA networks.

Available on all 2002-model Mercedes-Benz vehicles, the hands-free V60 phone system from Motorola is designed to help drivers fulfill their primary responsibility -- driving safely -- while offering all of the convenience features that Mercedes-Benz drivers' expect.

SMS, TrueSync®, WAP and VibraCall® - All in Your Pocket or Purse

When used outside the vehicle, the pocket-sized handset offers many new conveniences, including short messaging service (SMS) text messages for those who need to stay connected even in the quietest situations and a voice recorder to capture up to two minutes of personally recorded notes and reminders. TrueSync® capability allows users to upload and synchronize the phone with the calendar and address book of many personal information management devices such as a Palm handheld. A network dependent WAP 1.1 microbrowser provides quick access to weather updates, stock quotes, sports scores and more, while its VibraCall® alert discreetly notifies users of incoming calls.

Open or Closed, the Motorola V60 Communicates

The Motorola V60 phone also features a useful dual display when used outside the vehicle. When the phone is closed, an exterior display shows network dependent features, such as caller ID, text messages, or date and time. When the phone is open, a large interior display shows all standard functions, including the personal calendar and address book.

Feature-Rich Convenience in the Car

When docked under the center armrest, the new Motorola V60 phone automatically downloads its phonebook contents to the vehicle. With this level of integration, the phonebook contents and last dialed or received calls are viewable on the vehicle's dash. Additionally, the system automatically mutes the radio or pauses the cassette or CD player whenever calls are received or placed, and drivers can send and receive calls through integrated steering wheel controls or via a keypad on the audio system.

Hands-Free With High-Tech Voice Recognition

To help keep drivers' hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road, the Motorola V60 integrated hands-free phone system also offers voice recognition that enables drivers to use simple verbal commands to place calls. Sophisticated voice recognition software allows drivers to access speed-dial numbers from their phonebook or dial new numbers, all verbally.

``Mercedes-Benz prides itself on consistently delivering the highest level of safety and sophistication in our vehicles,'' said Dave Schembri, vice president of marketing for Mercedes-Benz USA. ``Starting with the innovation and convenience of hands-free operation while driving the vehicle, the feature-rich technology of the Motorola V60 integrated hands-free phone system provides our customers with a new level of staying in touch.''

``Throughout our longstanding relationship, Motorola has worked with Mercedes-Benz to provide the latest in advanced integrated hands-free phone and telematics systems,'' said Marios Zenios, senior vice president and general manager, Motorola Automotive Communications and Electronic Systems (ACES) Group. ``The Motorola V60 integrated hands-free phone system exemplifies our dedication to delivering technology that is smarter, simpler, safer and more synchronized. The Motorola V60 integrated hands-free phone system embodies our Responsible Driving slogan: Drive Safe, Call Smart(TM).''

About Mercedes-Benz USA

Mercedes-Benz USA is responsible for the sales, marketing and service of Mercedes-Benz cars and light trucks in the U.S. Headquartered in Montvale, New Jersey, MBUSA employs approximately 1,500 people in 20 locations across the U.S. Through a nationwide network of over 300 retailers, Mercedes-Benz USA sold 205,614 vehicles in the U.S. during 2000, setting the highest sales volume ever in its history for the third year in a row.