Interface Plus

Mercedes Benz has recently launched a new feature in the COMMAND system, called Interface Plus.  This is another multimedia system that allows you to sync almost anything to your qualifying Mercedes Benz from your smartphone, such as an iPhone.  Even app's on your phone such as pandora, can now be accessed from your steering wheel.  Some automakers such as Ford, have released MyFordTouch, a similar concept, which both the phone and car settings are controlled through the cars computer.  Mercedes's Interface Plus will also read your text messages to you, stream your music via bluetooth, and watch videos on the large COMMAND screen.

This system will not be controlled wirelessly; rather you have to purchase an MIP (Media Interface Plus) card which will allow the data to be copied from the phone to the car's hard-drive.  The system will also charge the device that is plugged in, whether it be an iPod, iPhone, or BlackBerry.  This is another attempt at shifting towards a handsfree driving experience, and focusing on using in-car controls to use mobile devices.  The feature is available on the 2011: S-Class, SL- Class, CL-Class, CLS-Class, and optional on the ML, E, E coupe, C with qualifying packages.  It would be interesting to see if more apps try to get on board with the integration of a motor vehicle.  Maybe they can work with HDD navigation systems to provide information such as cheapest gas, or most fuel efficient route!