Strategy Analytics has recently updated its Advanced Entry and Start System Supply and Fitment Database.  It revealed increased interest for Passive-Entry-Go (PEG) systems in the emerging markets, in particular from Chinese car makers following model launches at the 2010 Auto China (Beijing) show.  The updated Advanced Entry and Start System Supply and Fitment Database is now available from the Strategy Analytics website.  The new entrants in the Advanced Entry and Start System Supply and Fitment Database include various new models launched at the 2010 Auto China show.

• BYD’s new models have been deployed with PEG systems.  They include the electric minivan E6 now being offered to fleets, and the gasoline-driven G3 compact sedan.
• Geely also announced on May 02, 2010, that its new Emgrand EC8 mid-size sedan, among its new model line-up, will come with a PEG system.

Furthermore, joint venture car makers linked to global OEMs are also offering PEG systems, as well as other electronic systems.

• The deployment is not confined to high segment models like the Buick LaCrosse luxury sedan, but also the compact segments such as the Chevrolet Cruze.  Both models are assembled in China by Shanghai-GM.
• The Chevrolet Cruze is also being assembled in India and Korea by General Motors.  The PEG feature will also be offered to these markets, thus enabling a greater spread for PEG systems.

This strategy is in contrast to previous models assembled and sold in emerging markets, namely to reduce specifications in order to be more affordable.  The average Chinese consumer is not only more discerning than before, but has a higher disposable income and greater willingness to purchase vehicles with more features.  Recent information on the Chinese automotive market is available from the following Strategy Analytics reports,  Chinese OEMs: Rapid Advance In Quality Bodes Well For Automotive Electronics and Chinese OEMs Fast Catching Up On Powertrains.  Further updates in the Database include more car models assembled in Korea with PEG systems fitted.

• Renault Samsung Motors has PEG on its models, based on common platforms with the Renault Laguna and Nissan Teana.
• New models from the Hyundai-Kia group with PEG systems include the YF generation (MY 2010) Hyundai Sonata being assembled in Korea and in the United States.

Penetration rates and demand levels of PEG systems by region, and other types of entry systems, is available from the Strategy Analytics Automotive Electronics System Demand Forecast 2008 to 2017: Main Data Tables.  Finally, Delphi launched its new key fob in April 27, 2010 at the 2010 SAE World Congress.  It boasts two-way communication to approximately 1 kilometer (3,333 feet).  Using Bluetooth connectivity with the driver’s mobile handset, much of the vehicle’s systems can be controlled remotely through applications downloaded on to the mobile handset.  Near Field Communication (NFC) enables similar functionality for the European market.  Delphi’s new two-way communication fob can enable the driver to:

• Discretely locate the vehicle, with additional GPS support if beyond the 1 km RF range.
• Remote readings of vehicle diagnostics and thus provide warnings should the vehicle need servicing or repair.
• Remotely control infotainment systems prior to entering the vehicle, such as selecting radio channels.
• Remotely control operation of the doors, seat positions, sunroof and windows.
• Remotely start the HVAC system, to cool or to warm up the cabin, with temperature read-outs.
• Remotely start the engine to defrost windows and windshields.
• Warn of doors being left unlocked, and of the sunroof and windows being left unclosed.
• Warn of intruders either in the cabin or in the near vicinity of the vehicle through exterior and security cameras fitted to the vehicle.
• Warn of low fuel levels and low tire pressures, as well as electric vehicle support.

Further information on PEG systems is available from the Strategy Analytics report, Vehicle Entry and Go: Passive Systems Set To Challenge RKE, while information on the Delphi fob is available from the Strategy Analytics Automotive Blog, Delphi Smart Key Fob Enables App Access Without Subscription.  Model availability for PEG systems is beginning to expand beyond the mature markets and beyond the luxury segments.  This could lead to greater volume demand and result in lower cost and widespread demand for Passive Entry systems. 

• At present, the higher costs in purchasing PEG systems over the standard Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) systems has precluded widespread uptake from consumers.

As for two-way communication fobs, this is yet another functionality where the mobile handset has made in-roads into the automotive space.  Development of these systems has only just started, but in the future such systems will surely make an impact on the automotive industry.  Further information on mobile phones in the automotive space is available from the Strategy Analytics Automotive Blog, including articles such as InkaNet – Mobile-Based Infotainment Comes To Chinese Autos.