Every smartphone user knows that keeping the data connection on at all times drains the battery in record time. Carrying a charger everywhere you go is a bit of a hassle as well, so what can you do to keep your battery juiced up whilst on the move?
This is where wireless charging comes forth. This idea was first drawn up by the one and only Nikola Tesla, but only recently some EVs started to support inductive charging solutions. As for phones, the solution is available for a few years now, but Cadillac is one of the few car manufacturer's that offers a factory-spec wireless charging solution on the new ATS, eliminating the need for cords on board.
Compatible with Powermat and other in-phone wireless charging technologies, the feature can be ticked from the options lists only on models fitted with the CUE system. Basically, Powermat enables the phone to simply sit on a rubberized pad, with the phone's battery recharged by means of an electromagnetic field. An increasing number of smartphones have wireless charging either embedded or as an option. The wireless charger GM and Powermat created accommodates the majority of these devices.
“A recent survey from IHS revealed that 70 percent of consumers charge their mobile phone at least once per day, with 30 percent charging more than once,” said Ryan Sanderson, associate director, Power Supply & Storage Components at IHS Technology. ”With 4G LTE capability and now wireless charging, Cadillac is embedding conveniences that have quickly become essential customer needs,” added Ken Kornas, Cadillac ATS global product manager. Moreover, the tech will trickle later in the year to the 2015 Cadillac CTS sport sedan and the 2015 Cadillac Escalade.
Located inside the bin behind the motorized center instrument panel faceplate, the location of the inductive charging system has been chosen in order to keep the driver's hands on the wheel. By connecting to the infotainment system via Bluetooth, a driver can pair his or her phone to the vehicle and enjoy connectivity elements of the mobile device while it is both out of the way and charging.
The updated CUE system of the 2015 Cadillac ATS has been enhanced with a Text-to-Voice feature, so you don't have to take your eyes off the road to find out who texted you and for what reason.
After a 1:43 scale model of a Ferrari 250 GTO sparked Mircea's interest for cars when he was a kid, an early internship at Top Gear sealed his career path. He's most interested in muscle cars and American trucks, but he takes a passing interest in quirky kei cars as well. Full profile
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