Downloadable Dashboard Apps for Cars Coming in 2010

NYTimes.com - Hughes Telematics, which is behind the communications systems in Chrysler and Mercedes-Benz vehicles that are to make their debuts this summer, is headed in that direction. Its next-generation technology, expected to appear in 2010, would allow drivers to install software in their cars, just as iPhones let users download applications to their handsets.

For the eco-conscious, for example, an application the company is developing could track your peregrinations and estimate your total carbon emissions. It could offer tips on how to shrink your carbon footprint.

Other applications proposed by Hughes include remotely starting a car, resetting its alarm or unlocking the doors with an iPhone. Unlike wireless key fobs, commands could be sent to the car over the Internet.

Cars equipped with blind-spot-detection video cameras could be used to nab thieves. A vehicle could be programmed to take a picture of anyone near the car during a break-in and then e-mail it directly to a cellphone or computer. (continue here)