The IBM system, which goes by the name of "Artificial Passenger," can use touch-sensitive controls to perform basic functions throughout the vehicle like rolling down the windows, controlling the media player and answering the phone. The camera mounted in the middle of the steering wheel can perform similar functions by reading the lips of the driver. But the real fun with this system is the beatbox integration.

Think of it like Guitar Hero on your steering wheel. The touch controls are at 10 and 2, where your hands should be regardless, allowing you can tap out beats with the accompanying music. Redundant controls and a lip-reading camera are also integrated into the passenger side, so when you do have a passenger, they can enjoy the fun as well. Check out the video above for a full demonstration of the very strange system. [Autopia]

The iDrive can be customized and updated from any Internet-enabled computer thanks to GSM telematics (think cell phone technology), which automatically feeds updates to the car. It can also be updated using a USB flash drive, burned CD, or from the inside of the car itself. Check out the link for even more iDrive goodies. [Bimmerfile]

MAZDA TO OFFER DOCKABLE ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM WITH GAMEBOY ADVANCE FOR CX-9 CROSSOVER SUV

IRVINE, Calif. - Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today announced a new accessory available for the multiple-award-winning 2008 Mazda CX-9. Providing hours of entertainment for those long hauls, the Dockable Entertainment System with Game Boy® Advance (DES) is now available, and allows customers with moonroof-equipped vehicles to enjoy a Genuine Mazda Accessory rear seat DVD system.

With the ability to play games, movies, music and more in the CX-9, the Dockable Entertainment System with Game Boy® Advance (DES) provides endless enjoyment, truly enhancing the travel experience of the passengers and driver alike. The system combines the versatility of a premium in-vehicle player, a portable DVD player, 10.2-inch display and the world's most popular video game platform. The complete Mazda accessory kit contains a dockable DVD player, roof-mounted docking station, two wireless headphones, a wireless game controller, AC charger and a carry bag. A factory-installed, roof-mounted Rear Seat Entertainment System option with Bose 5.1 surround sound, 115V power outlet and audio/video input is available for customers choosing vehicles not equipped with a moonroof.

Coming off the heels of winning the 2008 Motor Trend Sport/Utility of the Year and the coveted North American Truck of the Year award, Mazda offers another way to make the CX-9 even more enjoyable. The Mazda CX-9 deftly blends Mazda's signature sporty driving spirit with seven passenger sport-utility vehicle (SUV) practicality. A clean break from traditional SUVs, the Mazda CX-9 crossover SUV has won high marks for its dynamic styling, powerful and dynamic driving performance and a spacious interior more commonly found in premium vehicles. With the addition of the Dockable Entertainment System with Game Boy® Advance (DES), Mazda provides more options for its customers to further improve the driving experience.

The Dockable Entertainment System with Game Boy® Advance (DES) is available on all 2008 CX-9s equipped with the Moonroof and Bose® Audio Package. With a suggested retail price of $1,400, the system is just another way that Mazda is providing CX-9 customers with more of the options they want.

CNET doesn't put a label on the best or worst design, but from my experience and the images provided, Volkswagen has to have one of the worst designed interfaces (pictured above) as far as design, ease of use and functionality are concerned. It's ugly. The lack of color, dynamic text and labeled side buttons could make it difficult to understand and operate, especially for individuals unfamiliar with multi-faceted media and info systems like those used in vehicles. On the other hand, Cadillac and Chrysler have very intuitive interfaces for their respective media and into centers. Large and clearly labeled touchscreen buttons make ease-of-use exceptional, and the inclusion of the aforementioned tabbing system receives high marks. [CNET]

Rear Seat Entertainment for China Audi A6L as a mobile film theatre

Audi will be unveiling an innovative entertainment system for rear-seat passengers in the A6L at the Shanghai Auto Show (20 - 27 April 2007). Two 10.2-inch monitors are fitted on the backs of the front seats. The DVD player integrated in the centre armrest also includes connections for a games console, iPod and digital camera. Together with the TV tuner, the system transforms the luxury-class saloon into a mobile film theatre. Sound can be relayed via either the on-board speakers or headphones.

The system is available in the A6L, the long-wheelbase version of the Audi A6. It is built exclusively for the Chinese market and is frequently used as a chauffeur-driven saloon. Since its launch in 2005, the Audi A6L has set the standard among its competitors in terms of ride comfort and luxury, spaciousness and design. The chassis, designed specifically for the road conditions in China, offers outstanding suspension comfort, particularly in conjunction with adaptive air suspension, which is optional.

With a wheelbase that is ten centimetres longer than that of the A6 saloon, the A6L is unique. This extended wheelbase benefits rear-seat passengers, who can enjoy legroom that is exemplary in this vehicle segment.

Not least the range of equipment available for the Audi A6L demonstrates this model's right to the claim "Vorsprung durch Technik". The MMI operating concept enables straightforward operation of a wide array of functions such as a telephone and audio and navigation systems, not to mention a wealth of vehicle settings. Comfort features and standard equipment also cater for every possible demand.

During this past year's Gumball 3000 rally, "Jackass" alum, "Viva La Bam" namesake and famous person well into his 16th minute, Bam Margera, had to drop out after his Lamborghini Gallardo suffered a catastrophic tranny meltdown. Bam said the car had been damaged by one of the rally crew (see video after the jump), who allegedly took the Lambo for a doughnut run on the tarmac after unloading it from a cargo jet. In retribution, the excitable, wool-capped one, along with cohort Steve-O, splashed paint on the guy's Peugeot 306 GTi-6 and broke a few of its windows. Now, the 1997 Peugeot will be a promotional totem and lens bait for 12-year-olds' digicams, just like Bam's soul. [Thanks to Mikael for the tip.] – Mike Spinelli

Topic: My Six Trashed!! [The Peugeot 306 GTi-6 and Rallye Owners Club]

Related:
Viva La Moonroof! Bam Margera And Billy Idol Chop Hole In Lambo Top [internal]

Maybe he's just gittin' all up in our ears with that raspy shit, but on his latest CD, "In My Mind" rapper Pharrell (aka Pharrell Williams) says he's ordered a Rolls Royce Phantom Coupe. Either that means Rolls is building a production version of the 101ex concept it showed off in Geneva this year, or our grasp on what's real and what's rap fiction is slipping even further afield. No one ever lost on betting the latter, though. [Thanks to Ovander for the tip.]

Related:
Spy Photos: Still More on the Rolls-Royce Phantom Convertible; Two Doors, No Contortions: The Rolls-Royce 101EX Concept [internal]