Jalopnik
Leave it to the clever scientists at BYD Auto, who came up with the ferrous battery hybrid and the in-show test drive, to invent a new solution to keyless entry. Tired of carrying a clunky key fob everywhere you go? Try a sharp-looking watch that includes locking functions as well as wireless startup so you can start your car from your watch, just like Inspector Gadget! The watch is also kinetic, so you never run out of batteries. And that's not all BYD has up/on its sleeve.
The company also plans to institute a "credit card" keyless entry system to replace those silly metal keys. Unlike the watch, we've actually seen this technology before (though it may be a step up for the Chinese market). If you want to look this cool you're going to need to purchase the Mercedes-esque BYD F8, as the technology is unavailable on the F6 and other models. Keep building your dream Chairman Wang Chanfu, and then driving us around in them. [The Tycho]
Comments
Should have done this using bluetooth via a mobile phone. Not everyone wears a watch,most people have phones.
Hey isn't that the watch Danaca was wearing
It looks like something they copied a the 1974 Sears catalog.
@DannyBN: "from a"
:d'oh:
@muleshoe: Na,hers had Mickey Mouse on it
@DannyBN: I don't remember any watches, but I remember the hell outta Cheryl Tiegs.
I am not sure about this particular iteration, but I love the idea. I think there are many folks, particularly guys, out there who have an interest in watches to go along with their car enthusiasm.
@beercheck: "Remember"? Is that a new euphemism?
"watch-like"? So it's not even a real watch?
Can they make it spin like a circular saw so I can cut rope with it.....just like James Bond???
I haven't worn a watch in years. I would be suspect of the phone idea as it seems too open to hacking. I would go for replacing my keys if the rest of my keys would go away as well. Otherwise, I'm just taking one key and the keyless remote off of my keyring, which doesn't seem like much of an improvement.
@layabout: I've always thought this would be the way to go.
I hate the gigantic key fobs with the lock/unlock buttons. They're too damn bulky if you - shock of shocks - like to carry your keys in your pocket. If phones could be programmed to do that, it'd reduce by one the number of pieces of ugly black plastic I'm forced to carry around every day.
credit card entry huh? identity theft from your car?
Probably covered in lead paint, etc.
Seriously though, that's pretty cool. This and the hybrid makes me think that BYD is the only car company in China that's actually motivated and capable of doing something original and innovative.
And does it say "AROLEX" on it, like some of the lesser fakes I saw last time I was in the motherland?
HMMph!
I'd still have to carry house keys.
Its a good idea, but if you're mugged, how do you get home?
@fillahb: Not if your house was a Chinese clone of your house.
Only if I can set a timer on the watch so the car starts and then comes to me by homing in on the watch signal.
Maybe then.
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