First off there is a Ford Taunus Transit in this film which is truly wonderful and proves that the technology suits both moderns and classics. But down to the important stuff and this upcoming change in the law is well worth remembering.
With the impending law changes regarding the use of mobile phones in cars, automotive entertainment expert Pioneer is reminding people that there is another way to remain safe – and legal – whilst staying in touch, thanks to its innovative technology that allows drivers to take and make calls, and even compose and listen to texts, all by voice control, or with a single screen touch.
Of course, the safest way to drive is with the minimum number of distractions, but for those that need to remain fully connected, either for work or pleasure, Pioneer’s latest SPH-DA120 Head unit might just provide the perfect solution.
From March 1 2017, drivers will receive six points on their driving licence and receive a £200 fine if caught even holding their telephone. These changes will have a significant impact on young drivers in particular, as they risk having their driving licence revoked following a first offence. Motorists will no longer be offered the opportunity to go on a driver awareness course and many forces are looking to clamp down hard and make examples of those flouting the new legislation as it comes into full effect.
Pioneer’s clever solutions allow drivers to make and take essential calls and texts without once diverting their eyes from the road, or taking their hands from the controls. In fact, better still, it puts all phone functions into a simple conversational command with the unit itself, using the very latest technology.
Thanks to its Apple CarPlay integration, the SPH-DA120 allows drivers with iPhone 5 or later, including iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus and the latest version of iOS to use Siri voice control to make and receive calls, compose and respond to text messages, use Apple Maps for navigation and even listen to their music libraries and podcasts. All of this is totally hands free.
The unit is also equipped with ‘Siri Eyes Free’. Here, users of iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 6, iPhone 5s, iPhone 5c, iPhone 5 and iPhone devices can take advantage of the Siri Eyes Free functionality with a single, brief touch of the SPH-DA120 touchscreen, staying within the current law. One activated, Siri provides voice prompts through the vehicle’s speakers, and the user’s questions and commands are received and transmitted using the external microphone provided with the unit.
In addition to its capabilities as a law-abiding motorist’s assistant, the SPH-DA120 also packs the usual Pioneer audio trickery up its 6.2” capacitive touchscreen sleeve. So, as well as a clean conscience – and licence – you can also enjoy the usual blend of navigation, DAB radio, lossless FLAC format digital music, Bluetooth connection – and a whole host of other features that make life in a traffic jam more pleasant.
Priced at £399.00 the Pioneer SPH-DA120 cost the same as two hands-free penalty tickets – and without the associated driving ban and subsequent insurance hike, it certainly seems like the more fun of the two options… Besides, you’ll have someone to talk to in the car now, even if you’re travelling alone!
