Renault has used the LeWeb'11 event to announce its next-generation in-car computer system: the R-Link.
Described as "the integrated, connected tablet", Renault's R-Link features a seven-inch touch-screen display combined with steering wheel-mounted controls and voice recognition technology for use while in motion.
A custom-built user interface makes accessing all the car's functions and data simple, the company claims, with a menu providing quick access to in-car multimedia playback, TomTom LIVE-powered GPS navigation and access to an application download service dubbed the R-Link Store.
This storefront will allow drivers to download additional applications to the device, with Renault announcing that more than 50 such apps - based on software already available for smartphones but tweaked for the larger display of the R-Link tablet - will be available at launch for immediate download directly on the device or via a user's My Renault account.
The R-Link tablet will become a standard feature on Renault's new ZOE and Clio models, and will be made an optional feature on all upcoming Renault vehicles in the near future.
To help push developers into creating new applications for the R-Link tablet, Renault has also announced a partnership with Laboratoire Paris Region Innovation to create an incubator for start-ups specialising in mobility-related connected services. Due to open in March 2012, the incubator will offer support and funding for companies innovating in the field.
Sadly, Renault has yet to discuss pricing for the device, except to say that it will be made available "at an unrivalled low price."
