Wireless Connectivity for E-Class Drivers: Smart Device Terminal from Continental in Production for the First Time

• Multifunctional terminal integrates smart devices wirelessly and safely for a range of application options
• Near Field Communication, wireless charging and vehicle exterior aerial network connectivity combined in a compact module
• In use for the first time: Start of production in the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Regensburg, November 22, 2016. For drivers of the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan, spare batteries, power banks and cable clutter for smart devices are a thing of the past: The Multifunctional Smart Device Terminal (MFST) from the international technology company Continental is making its debut in the automobile manufacturer's current model. A key functionality: the new terminal allows drivers to wirelessly charge their smartphone and operate a range of device functions in the vehicle safely and conveniently.

"Our entire development team and I are delighted that our Multifunctional Smart Device Terminal is being used for the first time in such an innovative and high-quality vehicle as the Mercedes-Benz E-Class," says Andreas Wolf, head of the Body & Security business unit at Continental. "As the first of its kind, our terminal is well-suited to meet high business standards. As well as the wireless charging function, drivers also benefit from the seamless integration of the mobile device in the vehicle."

To wirelessly connect the smartphone to the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the driver simply places the device in the compartment in the center console. Virtually any mobile device can then be charged inductively. The only requirement is that the smartphone meets the "Qi" standard specified by the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) or that it can be upgraded to do so. This standard provides a similar charging current to a USB charging connection and therefore has similar charging times to those of cable charging systems.

In the E-Class, the Multifunctional Smart Device Terminal also offers automatic wireless bluetooth pairing of the phone with support of the external antenna and the head unit in the vehicle. The driver only needs to activate the Near Field Communication (NFC) function. In addition, the NFC technology that Continental deploys allows using the smartphone as a digital vehicle key for secure authentication. To start the engine, the driver simply places the smartphone on the Multifunctional Smart Device Terminal and presses the Start-Stop button. The terminal also supports wireless antenna coupling, thus the mobile phone receives significantly better signal quality when transmitting and receiving phone calls and data.