Along with new operating systems for its range of Computers, iPads and iPhones, Apple has just launched its own map programme which it plans to integrate into iOS 6 from September. This includes step-by-step route guidance developed in partnership with TomTom and incorporates crowd-sourced traffic info based on real time data from other iOS users. Having had a brief look at the spec, I think it is going to make satellite navigation simpler, easier and more reliable than what is available with many existing third-party solutions used by auto manufacturers.
Dr. Z announced Apple Siri integration when the new A-Class was launched in March, so it looks like iOS maps will be baked into the new A-Class' satnav software. But there's something else. It is hotly rumoured that Apple will introduce a new, smaller iPad with a 7.5" retina display in September. This is exactly the same size as the screen presently planned to be fitted to the A-Class. So we may get a removable iPad option for the A-Class.
Another interesting snippet from German car magazine, Auto Motor und Sport, is that Mercedes-Benz has announced plans to start replacing most of its existing line-up of 4-cylinder engines with Diesotto variants from 2014. These petrol / diesel engine hybrids combine the benefits of both engine types. It means that at certain engine speeds and temperatures, the fuel-air mix is ignited by compression (like a diesel engine) rather than using spark plug ignition (like a petrol engine) which saves fuel. Most of the time, it functions like a conventional petrol engine but adding this refinement makes for a net fuel saving is 20%. Add stop-start technology and a saving of 25-30% is achievable.
So long as the new A-Class is dynamically well-sorted and offers class competitive if not class-leading ride and handling, we will have a truly exceptional car. What are the chances of this happening? I wouldn't want to bet against MB.
Dr. Z announced Apple Siri integration when the new A-Class was launched in March, so it looks like iOS maps will be baked into the new A-Class' satnav software. But there's something else. It is hotly rumoured that Apple will introduce a new, smaller iPad with a 7.5" retina display in September. This is exactly the same size as the screen presently planned to be fitted to the A-Class. So we may get a removable iPad option for the A-Class.
Another interesting snippet from German car magazine, Auto Motor und Sport, is that Mercedes-Benz has announced plans to start replacing most of its existing line-up of 4-cylinder engines with Diesotto variants from 2014. These petrol / diesel engine hybrids combine the benefits of both engine types. It means that at certain engine speeds and temperatures, the fuel-air mix is ignited by compression (like a diesel engine) rather than using spark plug ignition (like a petrol engine) which saves fuel. Most of the time, it functions like a conventional petrol engine but adding this refinement makes for a net fuel saving is 20%. Add stop-start technology and a saving of 25-30% is achievable.
So long as the new A-Class is dynamically well-sorted and offers class competitive if not class-leading ride and handling, we will have a truly exceptional car. What are the chances of this happening? I wouldn't want to bet against MB.
