Uconnect is Adding 4G LTE Connectivity

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Recently, Fiat-Chrysler revealed what to expect from the fourth generation of the Uconnect system that was coming soon to Chrysler vehicles.  To make the system even better, Chrysler is following up that announcement with the addition of 4G LTE network connectivity to the fourth generation Uconnect!

The 4G LTE network capability will begin with the 2017 Dodge Challenger, Charger, and Chrysler 300.  These are also the first vehicles that will have the fourth generation of Uconnect available.  This new network connectivity will help drivers get faster responsiveness from the services the tech system has to offer.

“The advancement from 3G Network to 4G LTE network capability gives our customers a great opportunity to expand upon and explore the efficiency and convience that our built-in connected services have to offer,” said Tricia Hecker, Global Head of Connected Services in a statement.  “As our Uconnect systems continue to develop new services and features, this increase of network connectivity allows our systems to evolve and progress as technology changes.”

If you need to schedule a time for your vehicle to be serviced, contact us at Bayside Chrysler Jeep Dodge.  You can also download our mobile app to schedule a time and keep an eye on the status of your vehicle once it’s been taken in.  Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for more service tips and specials.

Get Ready for the 2017 Uconnect Systems and Its New Features!

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The Uconnect system that Chrysler offers is one of the most robust and popular digital systems available in cars.  It represents a new future for state-of-the-art tech inside the vehicle.  Fiat-Chrysler recently put out a look at what to expect from it in 2017.

The all-new fourth generation Uconnect system will be available for drivers in 2017.  The new system aims to add new touchscreen, improvement to performance, and integrating new technologies such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

For performance upgrades, 2017 Uconnect will have a faster startup time as well as enhanced processing power.  The new 8.4-inch touchscreen will offer multi-touch gestures and improved graphics.  It will also support smartphone integration.  The new touchscreen on the Uconnect will mimic smartphone usage.  Instead of just touching the screen, it will respond to pinching gestures to zoom and unzoom as well as tapping and swiping.

As mentioned earlier, Uconnect will also have Apple CarPlay, making it easier to use with iPhones.  Android users get Android Auto support which also makes it easier to use your brand of phone in sync with Uconnect.

The fourth-generation Uconnect system will be in the 2017 Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger and challenger.

If you need to schedule a time for your vehicle to be serviced, contact us at Bayside Chrysler Jeep Dodge.  You can also download our mobile app to schedule a time and keep an eye on the status of your vehicle once it’s been taken in.  Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for more service tips and specials.

How Uconnect Helps Fight Against Distracted Driving

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In today’s era of cell phones, drivers have a hard time concentrating on the road.  It is a more dangerous time as the other drivers seemingly have their mind on everything but the road.  To help drivers and in honor of Distracted Driving Awareness Month, Chrysler has released a list of the six ways that Uconnect helps drivers remain focused on the road and helps to keep them safe.

  1. Do Not Disturb

Drivers who have a Uconnect system in their Chrysler vehicle will be able to turn on a “Do Not Disturb” feature.  This makes it so that the driver is not interrupted with calls or text messages while they are at the wheel.  Chrysler released a video to highlight this specific feature.

  1. Using Voice Commands

Uconnect has hands-free selection of various features on its system.  You can simply use voice commands to select voice navigation, radio, and other things without having to divert attention away from the road.  Need to find the closest Starbucks? Easy to do with just your voice using Uconnect.

  1. Audio Controls on the Steering Wheel

Even the task of turning up or down the volume on the radio is something that can be done without distraction.  By having audio controls on the steering wheel, you have full control over the radio if a song is too loud.

  1. Rear Back-Up Camera

Rear back-up cameras help to provide the driver with a clearer view of what is in their rear blind spot.  It helps the driver keep an eye out for anything or anyone in the way without sacrificing a view of what is ahead.

  1. Siri Eyes Free

This one is for Apple iPhone 4s or later models that can use Siri Eyes Free.  This allows drivers to use voice commands to send text messages, play music, or use directions.

  1. Voice Texting

Uconnect lets you text without having to make quick glances at a cell phone screen.  Using a Bluetooth Message Access Profile-enabled (MAP) device, the user is able to text without taking their hands off the wheel.

If you need to schedule a time for your vehicle to be serviced, contact us at Bayside Chrysler Jeep Dodge.  You can also download our mobile app to schedule a time and keep an eye on the status of your vehicle once it’s been taken in.  Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for more service tips and specials.

Chrysler Readies 2016 Uconnect System

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Chrysler’s Uconnect system is one of the most popular in the auto tech world.  It has won numerous auto tech awards and has been a winner with drivers all over.  Not wanting to rest on those achievements, Chrysler is making sure that for 2016, the Uconnect system will continue to be at the top of auto tech world.

One of the coolest new features is the Drag and Drop menu bar.  The driver now has the ability to customize and personalize their touchscreen.  The user can drag icons to make give their favorite apps easier to use and access.  Here is a video FCA released that explains it in more detail:

 

The next feature is Siri Eyes Free.  This feature is compatible with Iphone 4s and later models and gives the driver a host of hands free options.  With the press of a voice button on the steering wheel, the driver can now use voice commands to send text messages, access music, make phone calls, and start turn-by-turn directions.


Drivers will also be able to use the 2016 Uconnect’s Do Not Disturb feature.  With this mode turned on, the driver to route all incoming calls to voicemail or suppress text messages.  The driver can also use this to set a default or personalize response that is automatically sent out to the people trying to get a hold of you.


Lastly is the SiriusXM Tune Start.  Now drivers can start their music from the beginning of the song when switching from their radio channels.

The new 2016 Uconnect system will be come with an 8.4-inch touchscreen and be available on the Chrysler 200 and 300, Dodge Challenger, Charger, Durango, and Viper, and the Ram 1500, HD, and Chassis Cab.

Be sure to by liking Bayside Chrysler Jeep Dodge on Facebook, following on Twitter, or subscribing on YouTube.

Mopar Readies 100 Parts for 2015 Jeep Renegade Release

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Hot on the heels of the announcement of the new Jeep Renegade, Chrysler and Mopar have released the list of parts that will be made available when the Renegade is released.

Mopar has been making sure to be ready to help out buyers for the new wave of Chrysler vehicles coming out to have a host of options.  Each little piece of hardware is there to help each buyer feel like they can customizing a unique ride only to themselves.  Over 100 parts will be available the day the Jeep Renegade is released in dealerships.  That includes Jeep Performance Parts such as cold air intake and a lowering kit.

“The all-new 2015 Jeep Renegade is a landmark expansion of the Jeep brand’s global lineup, and the Mopar brand is supporting that growth by equipping Renegade owners with products to personalize their vehicles for both on-road and off-road driving,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO — Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand. “For each new Chrysler Group vehicle introduced, such as the Jeep Renegade, the Mopar brand is committed to assisting owners in modifying their vehicle even before driving away from the dealership.”

The all-new 2015 Jeep Renegade was unveiled recently at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show.  It brings with it a more traditional Jeep look with a blocky yet curvy design.  The interior shares the same care, adapting a similar look and feel to the ever-popular Wrangler.  Included in the package is also the beloved Uconnect system.

For more information on the new 2015 Jeep Renegade, contact a sales rep at Bayside Chrysler Jeep Dodge.  If you’re looking to purchase Mopar parts for a vehicle or schedule a time to service your current vehicle, you can do so by going online to our website.  Be sure to like us on Facebook and to follow us on Twitter for more news and special monthly offers.

 

Chrysler Improves CNG Tank with Human Lung Design

The next development in Chrysler engineering? Is it a new engine? No, it’s not. Maybe the follow-up to the Uconnect? Nope, not that either. Could it be another redesign for a Jeep vehicle? Not at all. The next step in the Chrysler development is the human lung.

With that setup and segway out of the way, let me explain. Chrysler is looking for ways to improve on the current gasoline model of compressed natural gas. For that, the engineers turned to the human lung for reference in making an improvement.

Current tanks are too big and awkward to fit into a vehicle. Typically the tank takes up room in the cargo space. By going with the design of the human lung, Chrysler thinks they’ve solved the problem of space. Like a lung, the new tank will use expanding sacks similar to how alveloi work in a lung. This leads to the tank no longer needing to be cylindrical in shape like traditional tanks.

Chrysler currently offers CNG in the Ram 2500, but if this new technology works as well as they hope, it’s very possible to see more.

For more information on the Ram 2500, or other Chrysler products, contact us at Bayside Chrysler Jeep Dodge. Whether you’re looking for a new or used car or just need to schedule an appointment for a check-up, we are always ready to help.

Mopar’s Wireless Charging Nominated for Best Technology of the Year

Last year, AOL Autos Technology of the Year Award named the Chrysler Uconnect as the winner. This year, Chrysler is getting a second chance at claiming the gold.

This year Mopar introduced an industry-first of including wireless charging technology for portable devices. That technology is now among six finalists up for the AOL Autos Technology of the Year Award.

The award is to honor and bring attention to the companies who raised the bar the highest in automotive tech. The final judgement will be decided by a expert team of judges from numerous tech blogs including AOL Autos, Autoblog, Engadget TechCrunch, and others.

Mopar’s wireless charging is currently available for the 2013 Dodge Dart. The power bin for the system rests below the center stack and in front of the center console. When the car is started, the driver can place their smart device in the bin and let the magic happen. A specialty phone case is required to make it work, however, but that is included in the feature.

Mopar’s wireless charging system is currently available for $199 plus installation. For more information on getting this amazing service installed in to your vehicle, contact our service department at Bayside Chrysler Jeep Dodge.

Mopar Readies Their Limited Edition 2013 Dodge Dart

Chrysler Group LLC introduces limited-edition Mopar ’13 Dart.The Dart may have to wait until next summer to enjoy being turbo-charged to appear on screens in the new Fast and Furious film, but that isn’t stopping Mopar from giving it a makeover in time for this season.

But sadly, this Mopar-ization comes with a limit.  Only 500 of the them will reach sales floors.  Dealerships are taking pre-orders now to get them in the hands of the lucky few who really want them.

The lucky ones get their hands on a truly unique ride.  The outside is given the Mopar standard paint job of being coated in black with a cool blue racing stripe stretching from the front to the rear of the Dart.  This is the same paint scheme that’s been used previously whenever the parts maker has gotten their hands on a vehicle, such as the Dodge Charger or the Challenger.

That same quality of design is evident in the interior as well.  The seats are done up with Katzkin leather.  And the rest of the cabin’s look is similar to the exterior with blue accents on a predominately black theme on the driver’s seat, the steering wheel, and the instrument paneling.

Mopar is notorious for the power of their product and it only makes sense that whenever they take a vehicle, such as the Dart, under their wing, that they prove why they’re considered one of the best in the business.  The engine is a Multiair turbocharged 1.4-liter four cylinder.  It also has six-speed manual transmission.

The limited edition Dart also comes with the 8.4-inch Uconnect screen and system, wireless charger, premium Mopar floor mats, and a sport-pedal kit.

For bragging rights, the list of features goes beyond what’s in and on the car.  The 500 individuals who purchase the limited edition will also get a personalized plate that has the vehicles specifications as well as a unique identification number and production date.  The last piece of the proverbial pie is a sketch of the car signed by Mark Trostle who is the Chief Designer for Mopar.

Not too shabby of a deal for a limited edition that has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $25,485.

For more details on the 2013 Dodge Dart and other Dodge products, visit Bayside Chrysler Jeep Dodge online.  We have our new and pre-owned inventory available for viewing.  For visitors in need of auto repair and service, schedule a time to come in with our high-quality service department.  Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for more auto news and for our monthly parts and service specials.

Chrysler Uconnect Wins AOL Tech Award!

system_lg_730N_RHRNear the beginning of last month we reported that the Uconnect system that Chrysler has been putting into all their new vehicles was up for the AOL Tech of the Year award.  The votes are in and the winner has finally been decided in the contest.  We are pleased to follow up that story by declaring that Chrysler wins the award!

AOL has named the Chrysler Uconnect Access system their Autos’ Technology of the Year.  With over 20,000 people going to the AOL Autos website to read up more on all the nominated tech of the year, they also cast their ballots for the one they considered the best and most innovative.

The panelist that determined the finalist was made up of editors from AOL Autos, Autoblog, and Engadget.  With one vote each, they gave Chrysler the slight lead with a single vote.  The final winner would need to have the popular vote to seal the deal, however.

That meant the victory was just because editors at popular auto blogs liked the Uconnect system, but also the general public.  Marios Zenios, VP of Uconnect systems, saw as much, “We are honored to be recognized by AOL Autos, but the public’s validation of Uconnect Access is especially rewarding.  Clearly, we are on the right track as we focus on designing features that are easy to learn, easy to use, and – most importantly – mindful of the fact that driving is the number one reason people are behind the wheel.  Unconnect Access enables our customers to keep their focus on the road, where it belongs.

For more additions you can put on to your vehicle, you can shop at Mopar online at Bayside Chrysler Jeep Dodge.  Make sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to see our monthly parts and service specials.

Uconnect up for Tech of the Year Award!

The new technology that Chrysler is placing in all of its upcoming models is really getting people excited. So much so that AOL Autos Technology of the Year Award has placed the Uconnect system as one of the 6 finalist.

The Uconnect has numerous features that have made it so popular with drivers. The ability to look at a monthly health report for your car is one. Another is being able to have your voice translated into text. It can even adjust the music you’re listening to so that you can hear the driving directions being relayed to you from the GPS or if someone is calling you on the phone in order to hear better.

The competition this wonderful new tech is going up against includes Audi, Cadillac, and Ford. Honda’s “LaneWatch” and Nissan’s tire pressure monitor and refiller are also wanting to take the win away from Chrysler.

Chrysler recognizes this as a big chance for the company to show just how important the new tech is. They are urging fans of Uconnect to go and vote for them.  The winner will be announced on January 9th at the Consumer Electronics Show.

Stop by the Mopar E-Store on Bayside Chrysler Jeep Dodge’s website to see a full listing of all the tech that you can customize in your own vehicle. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for more parts and service specials!