DETROIT – Reducing clutter and adding function, Cadillac will add wireless charging of smartphones in the 2015 model ATS sport sedan and coupe launching this fall. Compatible with Powermat and other in-phone wireless charging technologies, the feature eliminates the need for cords on board.
“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.
Following its introduction into the 2015 ATS, wireless charging technology will be added to the CTS sport sedan this fall and to the Escalade SUV at the end of 2014.
Powermat enables the phone to simply sit on a rubberized pad. The battery is 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 enabled devices.
The wireless charging feature will be located inside the storage bin behind the fully motorized center instrument panel faceplate of the ATS. This location creates a convenient option for drivers so they can keep their hands on the wheel. Using Bluetooth, a driver can pair his or her phone to the vehicle and enjoy many of the connectivity elements of the mobile device while it is both out of the way and charging.
For 2015, CUE includes new enhanced content such as a Text-to-Voice feature for smartphone users with Bluetooth profile, which reads incoming texts through the car’s speakers. Using the feature requires a compatible smartphone with Bluetooth profile and applicable text messaging feature.
