New Fiat 500 has Windows Mobile entertainment & comms system

It turns out that Fiat, Microsoft and a components company, Magneti Marelli, jointly developed a Windows Mobile-based media and navigation system for the 500 (and other models in Fiat’s range). Called ‘Blue & Me’, it features voice activation, a dashboard screen and steering-wheel buttons, and Bluetooth to connect to a cellphone. Music can be played from anything hooked up via Bluetooth, SMS messages are read out and it functions as a hands-free kit for calls; there’s also a USB socket for you to plug in a flash memory stick with music stored on it.

Upgrades include sat-nav and enhanced communication tools, while interactive navigation services, address look-up, weather and traffic reports and even satellite theft tracking are planned for future developments. For anyone looking to make a jaded “you don’t want a BSOD when you’re doing 50km/h!” joke, rest assured that Microsoft’s involvement doesn’t go as far as the engine.

I love the look of the new 500, and I’m really looking forward to test-driving one. Personally I find the BMW Mini to be a little soulless and arrogant, whereas the Fiat is more cheeky. Rumour has it that it’ll make it to Portugal in the begining of 2008.