What is Telematics?

The term telematics originated in Europe and remains widely used in the automotive industry. Telematics devices combine a wireless communications device with location sensing-technology and in some cases a service provider to provide a safety and convenience services to drivers. A wide range of services fall under the Telematics umbrella and these include:

• Emergency roadside assistance
• Stolen vehicle tracking
• Automatic crash notification
• Remote engine diagnostics
• Navigation assistance
• Concierge services
• Receiving and sending e-mail.

It is projected that 17 million consumer autos will be equipped with a telematics product by year-end 2005.