Elio Motors today will demonstrate its new internet vehicle technology, the SkyzMatic vehicle connectivity system from technology innovator Infinite Skyz, here at the Showstoppers @ CES media event at the Wynn Hotel.
Some of the system features include in-vehicle VoIP calling and Wi-Fi, remote vehicle monitoring and alarms, remote start and lock/unlock and navigation, but the platform allows for developers to write a host of different applications to interface with vehicle monitoring sensors. The connectivity also will provide Bluetooth 4.0, in-vehicle Wi-Fi internet access, camera monitoring and logging, vehicle location monitoring and accelerometer data monitoring.
The technology will provide Elio customers the ability to choose their level of engagement with their Elio via their smart phone or iPad. The system empowers the end consumer to decide what level of interactivity and applications are important, while allowing for the flexibility to add additional features and technological upgrades in the future.
“Consumers are connected to the Internet in nearly every phase of their lives today, including their vehicles, and this new option will provide our customers with the best technology available today,” said Paul Elio, founder and CEO of Elio Motors. “Whether it’s getting directions to a destination, tracking important vehicle performance information or a variety of other options, the SkyzMatic system will give our customers leading edge connectivity, convenience and peace of mind.”
Elio Motors has always considered its vehicle to be an excellent choice for parents to purchase for their children. The unique front-to-back two-person seating helps reduce driver distraction. In addition, the ability to track location, mileage and accelerator data will be a valuable tool to help monitor their children’s driving habits. All of the information provided by the SkyzMatic system will be transmitted directly to an iPad or iPhone.
“Internet connectivity will continue to grow as a must-have for vehicle owners in the coming years,” said Elizabeth Drake, Vice President of Infinite Skyz. “We are in the early stages of developing innovative uses for the SkyzMatic on the Elio and look forward to giving people a glimpse of what the future holds.”
The Elio ultra-high mileage vehicle, slated to launch in late-2015, will get up to 84 MPG and cost just $6,800. At CES, Elio Motors will demonstrate how several vehicle connectivity features interface with an iPad and further enhance the Elio owner experience.
The Elio will be manufactured in Shreveport, Louisiana, in a former General Motors facility that manufactured the Hummer H3, creating 1,500 jobs. In addition, the Elio will use 90 percent North American content, creating another 1,500 jobs at its supplier partner companies. These manufacturing jobs will in turn create approximately 18,000 indirect jobs across the country.
Elio Motors sees multiple markets for its vehicle, including consumers who still need the occasional functionality of a pick-up truck, sport utility vehicle or minivan, but are looking for an affordable, fuel efficient vehicle for their solo driving. The company sees the Elio as an “and” vehicle – purchase a larger vehicle for those times when you need the functionality, but use the Elio for solo commuter trips. For example, 76.3 percent of all commuters drive solo to work every morning according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
Consumer enthusiasm for the vehicle is high, as more than 38,000 people have reserved a spot in line to purchase an Elio.
About Elio Motors
Founded by car enthusiast Paul Elio in 2008, Elio Motors Inc. represents a revolutionary approach to manufacturing an ultra-high-mileage vehicle. The three-wheeled Elio is engineered to attain a highway mileage rating of up to 84 mpg while providing the comfort of amenities such as power windows, power door lock and air conditioning, accompanied by the safety of multiple air bags and an aerodynamic, enclosed vehicle body. Elio’s first manufacturing site will be in Shreveport, La., with plans for the first production vehicle to roll off the assembly line in 2015 and significant production, sales and distribution during the next two years. For more information, visit http://www.eliomotors.com.
About Infinite Skyz
Infinite Skyz, LLC was established in 2010 by a team of experienced entrepreneurs and high tech executives in Houston, Texas. Infinite Skyz, LLC creates, innovates, and delivers products and services incorporating the Internet of Things (IoT) for Industry. The company’s IoT technology revolutionizes the way industry connects field assets and optimizes operations for smart, efficient, and compliant decision making for an improved bottom line. Infinite Skyz is fulfilling the promise of IoT for Elio drivers.
