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Yazaki Develops In-Vehicle Multimedia Network with Microsoft's Support

2 May 2000

Yazaki Develops In-Vehicle Multimedia Network with Microsoft's Support

    CANTON, Mich., May 1 Yazaki North America, Inc. (YNA), a
leading provider of vehicle power and data solutions to the automotive
industry, announced today that it will use Microsoft Windows CE for Automotive
in the development of YNA's next-generation in-vehicle multimedia network
systems.
    In-vehicle networks allow for connectivity between a vehicle and consumer
electronic devices, such as cellular phones and personal digital assistants.
Yazaki is developing the in-vehicle multimedia network in response to the
increased demands for higher bandwidth for multimedia, entertainment and
telematics applications, which are the convergence of telecommunications and
information processing to allow, for example, Internet access from a vehicle.
    "By incorporating Windows CE for Automotive, drivers can access the in-
vehicle network to control an array of potential applications, such as voice
recognition and voice controls, navigation, digital video and audio, satellite
TV, and video games," said Myron Trenne, vice president of Advanced Technology
for YNA.
    "Our goal is to be the leading total vehicle multimedia network system
integrator for automotive manufacturers," Trenne said, "and the incorporation
of Windows CE for Automotive is an important step in achieving that goal."
    "We are excited to be working with Yazaki North America to develop the in-
vehicle multimedia network that will facilitate connectivity of infotainment
devices in the car," said Bob McKenzie, general manager of the Automotive
Business Unit at Microsoft Corp.  "With this technology, consumers will be
able to take advantage of a seamlessly connected computing environment in
their vehicles that will enhance their driving experience."

    About Yazaki Corporation
    Yazaki Corporation is a global leader in the development and manufacturing
of vehicle power and data solutions, and is continually researching and
developing advanced electronic technologies for vehicles.  Yazaki produces
electrical distribution systems, fiber optics, advanced networking,
instrumentation, junction blocks, connector systems, electronics and advanced
technology.  Worldwide, the company employs nearly 100,000 people in 31
countries, 1,400 of whom are based in the company's new North American
corporate headquarters/research center campus in Canton, Mich.

    About Windows CE for Automotive
    Microsoft Windows CE for Automotive is an operating system built on
Windows
CE-based technology to make possible new categories of in-car computers that
are capable of safely providing drivers and passengers with hands-free
communication, access to personalized information on the Internet, the ability
to summon emergency services and roadside assistance, and an array of
convenience and entertainment applications.  Windows CE for Automotive is an
open platform, which allows developers to quickly create powerful in-car
computing solutions.  It offers flexibility and choice of computing platforms,
hardware peripherals and software components, as well as a large community of
developers familiar with Windows CE development practices.