And gains USB port

Aug 31, 2005 16:47 GMT  ·  By

Mazda redefined interior packaging. The new concept was designed for all the interior systems to be used with a universal serial bus (USB) stick key that functions in place of a traditional key and includes a remote central locking function.

After unlocking, the concept "spreads" beneath the surface of the exterior with light pulsing around the front and rear lamps graphics and illuminating the door handles.

Opening the door reveals an illuminated USB port in the centre console glowing in a warm, red light. Inserted here, the USB stick key controls all interior systems and causes a joy-stick control lever to rise up. The system then comes alive, all systems are activated and the vehicle can be started using an ignition button next to the driver metre cluster.

"The USB stick key idea is the result of our targeting younger drivers," said Mickael Loyer, Interior Designer for Mazda. "We conceive the Sassou as having its own hard disc drive, security code recognition and Mazda software for owners, including a navigation programme that could be downloaded onto the vehicle's USB stick key. The owner could download the music he wants to listen to that day, directions to his favourite pub or beach hang out, using the USB stick key on his computer at home. When he inserts it into the Mazda Sassou interface slot, it would then automatically download onto the concept's hard drive."

That's definitely great news, but all of you who have the habit of losing your keys frequently should be more cautious from now on. This USB thing seems to be more expensive than a regular set of keys. Furthermore, my guess is that the whole concept of "getting locked in the car" is redefined also.

They said nothing about what may happen if you lose your USB. You can find out more about Mazda Sassou here.

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