LONG BEACH, Calif., April 29, 2002 — Microsoft Corp. today announced at the ITS 2002 (Intelligent Transportation Systems) America annual meeting that Volvo Cars of North America LLC new line of vehicles, available worldwide, contains advanced in-vehicle computing systems fueled by Microsoft® technology. Microsoft’s robust, real-time embedded operating system, Windows®
CE, powers the navigation devices in the 2002 Volvo S60, S80 and Cross Country models.
Mitsubishi Electric Corp. (MELCO), the preferred navigation supplier of Volvo, delivers leading-edge navigation systems based on Microsoft technology. The Windows Powered solution provides Volvo motorists with the safest and easiest access to navigation systems in their cars.
“The Volvo Car’s navigation system is a compelling value-add to our customers,” said Peter Rask, vice president of global communications at Volvo Car Corp. “Our goal is to enable our customers to safely and efficiently extend their connected lifestyle to the road. This in-vehicle computing solution powered by Microsoft technology allows us to realize that objective.”
The decision by Volvo to include Windows CE technology in its latest car models demonstrates a further commitment by the two companies to work collaboratively to improve the in-car computing experience for drivers and passengers. In December, Microsoft’s MSN®
unit and Ford Motor Co.’s Volvo unit announced a co-marketing alliance.
“Putting Microsoft technology in our vehicles takes us one step closer to the end-to-end connectivity that our consumers are asking for,” said Phil Bienert, manager of CRM, e-Business and future product strategy for Volvo Cars of North America LLC. “From our agreement with MSN to our use of Microsoft Web technology to using Windows CE in our vehicles, we see Microsoft as an industry partner that drives our business today and in the future.”
With Windows CE-based technology, Microsoft and industry partners are positioned to lead the race in advancing these flexible and integrated telematics devices.
“Microsoft is dedicated to developing technology for the auto industry and its suppliers that seamlessly and cost-effectively enables the design, development and delivery of world-class in-car applications,” said Bob McKenzie, general manager of the Automotive Business Unit at Microsoft. “Volvo’s selection of MELCO’s in-vehicle computing devices, powered by Microsoft technology, demonstrates the company’s commitment to empowering its customers with the safest, most advanced telematics products and services available today.”
Volvo’s new line of vehicles outfitted with Microsoft technology is available today worldwide.
About Windows Powered Technology for Automotive
Microsoft has invested half a decade to provide the automotive industry with great software that delivers information, entertainment, communication and services in vehicles. The company works very closely with automakers, automotive electronics manufacturers and consumers to provide the embedded automotive market with the systems and tools for building the next generation of intelligent, Windows Powered devices that demand rich applications and Internet services for a wide range of flexible solutions.
About Volvo
Volvo Cars of North America LLC (VCNA) is an affiliate of Ford Motor Co.’s Premier Automotive Group based in Irvine, Calif., and is a subsidiary of the Volvo Car Corp. of Goteborg, Sweden, which will be celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2002. VCNA provides marketing, sales, parts, service, technology and training support to Volvo automobile retailers in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.
The 2002 Volvo automobile line includes the sporty S60 and the new S60 AWD, the flagship S80 luxury sedan, the versatile V70 wagon and rugged Cross Country, C70 Coupe and Convertible, and the compact S40 and V40 models. More information is available at http://www.volvocars.com/.
About Mitsubishi Electric Corp.
With 80 years of experience in providing reliable, high-quality products to both corporate clients and general consumers all over the world, Mitsubishi Electric Corp. (FTSE: 6503q.l) is a recognized world leader in the manufacture, marketing and sales of electrical and electronic equipment used in information processing and communications, space development and satellite communications, consumer electronics, industrial technology, energy, transportation and construction. The company has operations in 34 countries and recorded consolidated group sales of over $33 billion (U.S.) in the year ended March 31, 2001. Additional information on Mitsubishi Electric is available at http://www.mitsubishielectric.com/.
About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and Internet technologies for personal and business computing. The company offers a wide range of products and services designed to empower people through great software — any time, any place and on any device.
Microsoft, Windows and MSN are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corp. in the United States and/or other countries.
The names of actual companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.
For more information on Microsoft Windows CE for Automotive:
http://www.microsoft.com/automotive/
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