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Mother helps engineer VE


Electrical engineering group manager Paul Gibson said one of the engineers sought the help of his mother to make sure controls for the information systems were easy to use.

The result is an intuitive system that even includes a help button modelled on the Microsoft help button.

When pushed, the help button will describe how to operate various functions.

The new electrical functions are co-ordinated by a GM Local Area Network (GMLAN) which not only allows communications between functions, but also allows simple dealer retro-fitting of functions such as satellite navigation.

Gibson said that although the system was twice as complex, it was also faster and more reliable thanks to substantial testing on a new $500,000 simulator.

Features of the cars new electrics include:

  • Three instrument illumination colours.
  • A Saab-inspired night lighting system which only displays crucial information.
  • Roof-mounted aerial for stronger AM reception.
  • Roof-mounted DVD system which can be retro fitted in all models.
  • Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity standard in most models and available in Omega.
  • Fully integrated satnav available later this year.
  • A more accurate fuel gauge system.
  • Front and rear parking assist on selected models.
  • Auto headlights and rain-sensing wipes on selected models.

Holden has also boosted its telematics security systems through GPS and mobile phone technology with the addition of a fleet control system so owners can monitor whereabouts, speed and other information.

The private security system has also been boosted with Holden Assist Ultra offering the ability to immobilise the vehicle if stolen.