New Articles
  May 9th, 2014 | Written by

Geneva Car Show Shifts To The Future

[shareaholic app="share_buttons" id="13106399"]

geneva-lead

When the first International Geneva Motor Show was held in 1905, the hot item, quite literally, was the steam engine. When the 84th version of the exhibit recently took place, cutting-edge steam innovation had been replaced by more powerful and efficient electric engines and high-tech accessories that put humankind one step closer to its longstanding dream of hands-free Flappy Bird.

CarPlay in play. Likely the biggest news to come out of Geneva was Apple’s rollout of its CarPlay system, which allows drivers to integrate their iPhone on their vehicle’s infotainment system utilizing the familiar iPhone homepage to handle phone calls, emails and texts, as well as access directions and listen to music through first- and third-party apps.

Cadillac will get a bigger push in Europe. Having sold just 2,200 units of its luxury brand in Europe last year, GM made clear it will be much more aggressive in pursuing continental customers, announcing that part of a 10-year plan will be an upgraded website and marketing campaign, as well as diesel engines and right-hand-drive models.

How nice for Cadillac, but where can I get one of them CarPlays? CarPlay launches this year on the likes of Honda, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz and Volvo and will soon be available on future Ford and Chevy models.

Jeeped. The all-new Jeep Renegade, a product of the recent Chrysler-Fiat merger, was designed in America, built in Italy to be sold in the U.S. where it will replace both the Jeep Compass and Patriot. And do a pretty good job of it. Motor Trend spotlighted the Renegade for making one of the most auspicious debuts at Geneva.

Uh-huh, and what about Siri?!?! Yes, you’ll be able to access your favorite passive, aggressive disembodied voice and task her with playing your favorite tunes, looking up directions and sending and replying to messages. But that doesn’t excuse you from getting a life.