Telstra has teamed up with electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla Motors to provide machine-to-machine connectivity for Telsa’s Model S car in Australia.The agreement will see Telstra provide mobile connectivity for a number of features in the Model S, including the infotainment and remote diagnostics systems.
Tesla has recently arrived in Australia, with its 5-seat Model S carrying a price tag starting at around $100,000.
John Chambers, Telstra Mobile executive director, noted Australia is poised to enter an era where cars, like smartphones, connect to the mobile network.
“Increasingly, technology is becoming top of mind for Australians choosing new cars, and by 2025 we expect 90 per cent of new vehicles sold in Australia will come ready to connect to a mobile network,” Chambers commented.
“We’re really pleased to be working with Tesla to showcase what the future holds for Australian motorists by providing connectivity for the Model S in Australia.”
Chambers said Model S owners will be able to access live information via the Model S’s 17″ touchscreen, and control features from the suspension, to the climate control, through to the sun roof, while drivers and passengers will be able to stream music, and access maps and traffic updates.
Tesla owners will also be able to monitor and control features via the Tesla app.
“Using the Tesla app, owners can check the progress of their vehicle’s charge, turn on air-conditioning remotely before hitting the road and even unlock doors without using a key,” Chambers stated.
The remote engine diagnostics system, which can relay information about the car’s performance to Tesla service staff, will also be connected, with remote diagnosis helping Tesla to determine any potential issues and a solution without direct access to the car.
