Rinspeed BamBoo Concept Social Networking Hub by HARMAN

With less than one day until this year’s Geneva Auto Show opens its gates to the media representatives from around the world, global audio and infotainment group HARMAN has announced it will showcase its range of connectivity solutions that are to transform the Rinspeed BamBoo electric concept car into the world’s first social networking vehicle.

HARMAN’s infotainment system includes an integrated WiFi connection that connects the vehicle to the people and places around it via the Internet.

The company will showcase seamless connectivity between Android-based smartphones and tablet computers from HTC Corporation and the HARMAN in-dash head unit. Information such as e-mails and SMS texts are converted from text-to-speech, allowing drivers to keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.

A wireless DLNA connection that connects the HARMAN in-dash system to a Harman Kardon home media player has also been included.

HARMAN’s infotainment system is also the central hub for the BamBoo energy management system, which precisely calculates the car’s available range with energy efficient routing.

Furthermore, HARMAN’s HALOsonic ESS Electronic Sound Synthesis technology generates engine noise or a driving sound to warn pedestrians of the approaching automobile. When operating in virtually silent electric mode, one front-mounted speaker emits an acoustic signal to warn pedestrians of the approaching vehicle.

Inside the car, generated sound gives a sense of vehicle speed and acceleration. The system provides the driver with the accustomed acoustic feedback, even though the motor operates virtually without sound.

autoevolution will be attending the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, so stay tuned for some real up close and personal shots of the vehicles, as well as for first-hand details of the motorized contraptions presented at the event.