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Retrofit or buy Alexa car?
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Use Alexa in the car: how does it work?
It is illegal and increasingly fatal, but many drivers cannot do without their smartphone on the go. The most dangerous thing is the distraction that arises when you look at the display. Remedies promise hands-free systems, the functions of which can usually be used with voice control. So the view remains on the street.
While technology fans initially had to use a DIY solution consisting of Echo Dot and a smartphone as a hotspot or a mobile WiFi router (with at least 3G support), there are now practical retrofit solutions for old cars. More and more new cars are even being equipped directly with Alexa. We present both variants.
Option 1: Use Alexa Auto AdapterMost Alexa auto adapters are operated via the cigarette lighter and therefore do not require any special structural requirements for installation. The most popular model among Alexa auto retrofit plugs is currently Roav VIVA Pro. With it e.g. Control music or listen to messages using Alexa voice commands. The retrofit adapters are therefore particularly suitable for occasional users.
Option 2: use cars with Alexa integrationOf course, it is even more convenient to choose a car model that has an Alexa-compatible app or on-board electronics. Because Alexa commands also allow access to car functions, such as the locking technology of the doors, the air conditioning or the odometer. Cars with Alexa on board are aimed at users who want to fully voice-control their vehicle. In this guide, we list in detail which brands are already used with Alexa and where the appropriate Alexa skills can be found.
Alexa can make driving more comfortable and safe
(Amazon)
Variant 1: Retrofit Alexa voice control via car adapter
With the right adapter, Alexa functions can be used in almost every vehicle. The advantage of Alexa adapters is clearly their low purchase price and the possibility to quickly replace or remove them if necessary – for example when selling a car. Their disadvantage is that they cannot control auto functions. Locking the car is e.g. not possible. On the other hand, you can listen to music, check messages or order a pizza.
Recommendation dhe editor: Roav VIVA Pro from Anker
The well-known loudspeaker manufacturer Anker has developed Roav VIVA, its own Alexa plug, which can be used with almost every vehicle type via Bluetooth, CarPlay, Android Auto, aux input and FM transmission. All Alexa skills and functions can then be used via the Roav VIVA app.
In addition, the smart car connector can charge up to two devices at the same time. Due to its compact size, which corresponds to only about a third of the Echo Dot, it does not take up much space and therefore has a great effect. In the newer version Roav VIVA Pro, an FM transmitter and an AUX port are also integrated.
Alexa-enabled 2-port USB car charger for GPS, hands-free calls & music playback, for cars with Bluetooth / CarPlay / Android Auto / Aux-In / FM reception
Muse Auto (2nd generation)
As the inventor of the muse When Alexa Voice Assistant presented their project on the crowdfunding platform Indiegogo in 2017, they had no idea what rush they would trigger. Within a short time, the campaign reached 567 percent of the amount hoped for – the launch in America was therefore not long in coming. In the meantime, the 2nd generation is already in circulation in Germany and is always sold out.
Visually, the Muse Alexa Voice Assistant is unfortunately not an eye catcher, but it is already compatible with many popular providers and services. For example, you can have audiobooks read aloud via Muse, stream iHeart radio or make calls.
Availability: This adapter is currently out of stock (as of 12/2019)
Garmin Speak Plus mini navigation system
According to its name, the Garmin Speak Plus Alexa speaker focuses on verbal control. It also has a small display, but only the absolute standard information is shown on top of it, and it is very small. Basically, it is possible to connect the Garmin speaker with a dash cam for the dashboard. However, these are very controversial in Germany, in contrast to the main American market for the Garmin speaker.
Combination of dash cam, navigation and voice control with Alexa. Works with the car's sound system.
Echo car Amazon's own Alexa adapter
The Echo Auto Adapter developed by Amazon is technically based on the popular Echo Dot 3 speaker. Correspondingly, several far-field microphones, two control buttons on the top and a microphone switch are integrated in Echo Auto. For more convenience, Amazon has also optimized the voice recognition in this model so that noise such as street noise is filtered out.
At Echo Auto, Amazon remains visually true to the sober design of its Amazon devices
(Amazon)
Availability: Echo Auto is not yet available for order in Germany. At CES 2020, Amazon announced that it would be launched soon.
Variant 2: Buy car brands with integrated Alexa software
Retrofit solutions have the great advantage that Alexa can also be installed in old vehicles. The biggest challenge, however, is usually the required internet connection. In addition, Alexa cannot simply access the functions of the car with retrofit solutions and e.g. don't open the doors.
That is why Alexa is being integrated directly into the on-board electronics for more and more car brands or can be linked to the manufacturer's auto app to control in-car functions. The main tasks of Alexa as a passenger should include navigation, music and smart health home control, as well as orders. This would allow us to start our favorite playlist, for example, while Alexa is navigating us through rush hour traffic, turning on the air conditioning and also ordering a pizza.
"Alexa, activate the air conditioning" – Alexa integration using the example of BMW
The BMW car brand shows which requirements have to be met so that a car can be smart health connected to Alexa, how it works and what options result from it.
What are the requirements for BMW control with Alexa?So far, the BMW smart health connected Skill essential for use is only available in Germany, Austria, the United States and Great Britain. In addition, only one BMW with Alexa can be operated per smart health connected Drive account.
Which BMW models are compatible with Alexa?
1st: 2018 (Nov) +
2 series: 2018 (Nov) +
4 Series: 2018 (Nov) +
5 Series: 2018 (Nov) +
6 Series: 2018 (Nov) +
7 Series: 2018 (Nov) +
i3: 2018 (Nov) +
i8: 2018 (Nov) +
X1: 2018 (Nov) +
X2: 2018 (Nov) +
X3: 2018 (Nov) +
X4: 2018 (Nov) +
X6: 2018 (Nov) +
The number of functions that can be controlled via Alexa depends on the model
(BMW)
How does Alexa connect to my BMW?Only a few steps are necessary to use Alexa in a BWM (e.g. BMWi3):
BMW smart health connected App (Android | iOS) download and create a free smart health connected Drive account.
Connect smartphone to car via Bluetooth. Subsequently, various vehicle-specific data, e.g. charge status, visible. The BMW can also be located using the app.
With the help of BMW smart health connected Alexa Skills many functions can also be controlled by voice.
Which car functions does Alexa control in the BMW?The options for using voice commands vary depending on the model. To find out which Alexa functions are available for your own BMW model, simply go to the "Hub" tab in the BMW smart health connected app on the Alexa page.
According to the manufacturer, e.g. following voice commands:
"Alexa, ask BMW:
… What's my next trip? ”
… What time is my next appointment? "
… Activate the air conditioning. "
… lock the doors / is my BMW locked? "
… Are my windows closed? "
… What is my remaining range? "
… Is my sunroof closed? "
…. Is my trunk locked? "
…. How long will it take for my battery to be fully charged? "
Audi, Ford, MINI, SEAT, Toyota & Co.: These cars are also Alexa compatible
Some time ago, Amazon published an official overview of car brands that can be networked with Alexa. We summarize them.
Important: The usable Alexa functions can vary depending on the equipment variant of the vehicle, region and language settings. Some manufacturers also have to purchase a separate data, entertainment or connection package / subscription to use Alexa.
Use Audi with Alexa
A6: 2020+
Q7: 2020+
A8: 2020+
e-tron: 2019+
Q3: 2020+
Q7: 2020+
Q8: 2020+
Alexa extends the range of functions of many Audi models
(Audi)
Ford vehicles with Alexa integration
C-Max: 2016+
Edge: 2016+
Escape: 2016+
Expedition: 2016+
Explorer: 2016+
F-150: 2016+
F-250: 2016+
F-350: 2016+
Fiesta: 2016+
Flex: 2016+
Focus: 2016+
Fusion: 2016+
Mustang: 2016+
Taurus: 2016+
Click here for Ford Android Alexa and to Ford iOS Alexa app
Lexus cars that can be controlled with the manufacturer's Alexa app
At Lexus, some models are only compatible via the Android app version Alexa, others only via the iOS variant.
So far, MINI models can only be controlled by iOS users Alexa
Clubman: 2018 (Nov) +
Convertible: 2018 (Nov) +
Countryman: 2018 (Nov) +
Hatch: 2018 (Nov) +
John Cooper Works: 2018 (Nov) +
Connect SEAT Media Control and Alexa app
Arona: 2019+
Ateca: 2017+
Ibiza: 2019+
Leon: 2017+
Tarraco: 2019+
Now SEAT Alexa Android app install or more SEAT Information recall.
Control Toyota vehicles using the Alexa app
At Toyota, too, certain models are only compatible with the manufacturer's Android Alexa app, while others are only compatible with the iOS Alexa app. The instructions, however, provide general information: Integrate Alexa into Toyota cars of the manufacturer.
A dedicated Alexa Skill is even available for selected car models
Some car manufacturers not only make their Alexa auto apps compatible and integrate the voice assistant into their on-board electronics, they also have their own Alexa skills developed for their brand.
BMW
2 Series: 2014+
3 Series: 2014+
4 Series: 2014+
5 Series: 2014+
6 Series: 2014+
7 Series: 2014+
i3 Series: 2014+
i8 Series: 2014+
M2 Series: 2016+
M3 Series: 2015+
M4 Series: 2015+
M5 Series: 2014+
M6 Series: 2014+
X1 Series: 2014+
X3 Series: 2014+
X2 Series: 2018+
X4 Series: 2015+
X5 Series: 2014+
X6 Series: 2014+
Z4 Series: 2014+
Buick classic car
Cascada: 2016+
Enclave: 2011+
Encore: 2013+
Envision: 2016+
LaCrosse: 2011+
Lucerne: 2011+
Shelf: 2011+
Verano: 2012+
Download the myBuick Alexa Skill nowThe Buick Alexa page of the automaker.
Alexa can also be used in more and more Buick models
(Buick)
Cadillac
ATS: 2013+
CTS: 2011+
CT6: 2016+
DTS: 2011+
ELR: 2014+
Escalade: 2011+
Escalade ESV_ 2011+
Escalade EXT: 2011+
SRX: 2011+
STS: 2011+
XT5: 2017+
XTS: 2013+
Here you can myCadillac Alexa Skill activate. Further information on Cadillac use with Alexa is also available from Cadillac manufacturer's site.
If you like, you can use your Cadillac as a storage location for Amazon orders
(Cadillac)
Chevrolet
Avalanche: 2011+
Aveo: 2011+
Bolt: 2017+
Camaro: 2011+
Captiva Sport: 2012+
Colorado: 2011+
Corvette: 2011+
Cruze: 2011+
Equinox: 2011+
HHR: 2011+
Impala: 2011+
Malibu: 2011+
SS: 2014+
Silverado 1500: 2011+
Silverado 2500: 2011+
Silverado 3500: 2011+
Sonic: 2012+
Spark: 2013+
Suburban: 2011+
Tahoe: 2011+
Traverse: 2011+
Trax: 2015+
Volt: 2011+
Here’s where myChevrolet Alexa Skill. Now the Chevrolet FAQ page about Alexa look at
Alexa Chevrolet can lock or unlock vehicles on demand
(Chevrolet)
Chrysler
300: 2017+
Pacifica: 2018+
Pacifica Hybrid: 2018+
ford
FordPass Alexa Skill
Escape: 2017+
Explorer: 2018+
F-150: 2017+
Fusion: 2017+
Fusion Hybrid: 2017+
Now that FordPass Alexa Skill for free activate
MyFord Mobile Alexa Skill
C-Max Energi: 2013+
Fusion Energi: 2013+
Focus Electric: 2012+
genesis
Hyundai
Accent: 2017+
Azera: 2015+
Genesis: 2015+
Elantra: 2017+
Ioniq: 2017+
Kona: 2018+
Santa Fe: 2017+
Sonata: 2015+
Sonata Hybrid: 2016+
Tucson: 2016+
Veloster: 2016+
jeep
Jeep Alexa Skill
Cherokee: 2019+
Compass: 2018+
Grand Cherokee: 2018+
Renegade: 2018+
Wrangler: 2018+
Uconnect Alexa Skill
Now that Jeep Alexa Skill activate
Jeep Uconnect Alexa Skill
Cherokee: 2014 to 2017
Grand Cherokee: 2014 to 2018
Renegade: 2014 to 2017
Here’s where Jeep Uconnect Alexa Skill
KIA
K900: 2016+
Optima: 2019+
Optima Hybrid: 2017+
Niro Hybrid: 2018+
Soul EV: 2017+
Here you can UVO Alexa Skill activate
Alexa skills can be used on KIA vehicles e.g. activate the air conditioning
(KIA)
Lexus
CT: 2016+
ES: 2015+
GS: 2015+
GX: 2016+
IS: 2015+
LS: 2015+
LX: 2016+
NX: 2015+
RC: 2015+
RX: 2016+
Mercedes
C-Class Coupe: 2017+
C-Class Sedan: 2017+
C-Class Cabriolet: 2017+
CLA Coupe: 2017+
CLS Coupe: 2017+
E-Class Coupe: 2017+
E-Class Sedan: 2017+
E-Class Cabriolet: 2017+
G-Class SUV: 2017+
GLA SUV: 2017+
GLC SUV: 2017+
GLC Coupe: 2017+
GLE SUV: 2017+
GLE Coupe: 2017+
GLS SUV: 2017+
Mercedes-AMG GT: 2017+
Mercedes-Maybach: 2017+
S-Class Coupe: 2017+
S-Class Sedan: 2017+
S-Class Cabriolet: 2017+
SLC Roadster: 2017+
SL Roadster: 2017+
Now that Mercedes Me Alexa Skill download.There is more information on the Mercedes Alexa blog post of the automaker.
"Alexa, ask Mercedes where is my car" is just one of the possible commands
(Mercedes)
Mitsubishi
Here’s where My Mitsubishi Connect Alexa Skill
Nissan
Nissan Connect Alexa Skill
Altima: 2016+
Armada: 2018+
GT-R: 2017+
Maxima: 2016+
Murano: 2017+
Pathfinder: 2017+
Rogue: 2016+
Rogue Sport: 2017+
Sentra: 2016+
Titan: 2017+
Titan XD: 2016+
Now that NissanConnect Alexa Skill activate
NissanConnect EV Alexa Skill
Here’s where NissanConnect EV Alexa Skill Download
Turning on the vehicle lights is no problem with Alexa in the Nissan
(Nissan)
Skoda
Fabia: 2019+
Karoq: 2018+
Kodiaq: 2017+
Octavia: 2017+
Rapid: 2017+
Superb: 2017+
Here you can Škoda Alexa Skill now on the Škoda Connect manufacturer's website Learn more about connecting to Alexa.
From health home, Škoda drivers can use Alexa, e.g. find out the mileage of your car
(Škoda)
Toyota
Avalon: 2019+
Camry: 2018+
Corolla Hatchback: 2019+
More information is available at the Toyota Alexa Skill Page.
On demand Alexa informs e.g. about the current traffic situation
(Toyota)
Volvo
C30: 2012+
C70: 2012+
S60: 2012+
S80: 2012+
V60: 2015+
V90: 2017+
XC40: 2019+
XC60: 2012+
XC70: 2012+
XC90: 2012+
Now that Volvo Alexa Skill download here Networking instructions of the manufacturer
Does Alexa make sense as a passenger?
Alexa can be used in the car just like at health home: she willingly accepts voice commands and answers questions about all areas of knowledge. Alexa also streams music or podcasts in the car via various online libraries – above all, of course, Amazon Music. It also outputs current traffic information, for example for the way to work. Alexa also finds the nearest restaurants and shops, as well as the distance and the way to the desired destination. And thanks to the integration of the smart assistant in the smart health home, all devices can be controlled at health home while on the go: for example, to unlock the front door from the car or to switch on the lights.
More advice on Alexa
These devices can be controlled with Amazon AlexaAlexa Skills: The 111 Best Free Amazon Echo FeaturesAlexa commands: The 303 most important voice commands for Alexa
More trends and news about the smart health home
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