Telematics specialist Intelligent Mechatronic Systems (IMS) has introduced iLane, a device about the size of a PDA that uses Bluetooth short-range wireless technology and a voice-based interface to notify the driver of incoming messages.

The driver can then listen to the entire e-mail, forward it or compose a response; and handle meeting requests using verbal commands. The system also handles phone calls and text messages.

Safety Measure

ILane comprises a Bluetooth transceiver that links with Bluetooth-enabled handheld devices and vehicle sound systems or headsets to read the messages out loud and to take driver instructions. The presence of the driver is automatically detected by the system.

"The objective is to improve driver safety," iLane product manager Ben Miners said. "We know people are taking their BlackBerries and PDAs out while and typing in them while they are driving, and this allows them to keep their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road."

Communications not requiring an immediate response can be automatically managed with a preset user preference, Miners said, adding that when a message is received the driver only has to say "call sender" to initiate a reply as the system is connected to the user's address book.

Driven to Distraction

As for concerns about driver distraction, Miners conceded that iLane falls into that category but in fact is a safe alternative to using a handheld keypad. "We could ignore the fact that people are typing e-mails while they are on the road, or we can offer a safe alternative," he said.

Much has been written about the hazards of driving while talking on a cell phone, including a recent study that concluded that such activity was as dangerous as driving drunk.

Researchers at the University of Utah found not only that cell phone users were five times more likely to get in an accident than drivers not talking on the phone, but also that the risk is about the same for drivers with a .08 percent blood-alcohol level, the threshold adopted by most states in determining impairment.

Adding fuel to the debate, the Cellular Telecommunications Industry Association (CTIA) points to government figures showing that accidents are declining while the number of drivers, miles driven, cell phone subscribers, and minutes of use are rising.

"We are enabling drivers to leave handheld devices in their pockets," Miners said. "There is no need to pass laws banning their use."

So far, three states -- New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut -- and the District of Columbia have passed laws requiring a hands-free device be used when talking while driving.

iLane has been tested with an array of wireless e-mail devices, including the BlackBerry, Palm Treo and Windows Mobile-based hardware . A version for Symbian OS handhelds is in the works.