Renault has launched an app, called R&Go, for its Trafic and Master customers. The app connects to the vehicle using Bluetooth, and offers satellite navigation with traffic alerts, vehicle trip information and full music and phone connectivity via a smartphone.
Nowadays, the cab of a van is used increasingly as an office, and Renault say this latest gadget is in response to this trend. Renault says the new system is transparent and easy to use, and provides easy access to the four sections:
- Trip computer provides a multitude of information for the driver, including fuel economy, distance travelled and an Eco rating based on factors such as acceleration and anticipation to help show how fuel economy can be further improved.
- The multimedia section allows the user to play music already stored on their device, listen to Internet radio or simply control their FM radio through the app, giving touchscreen functionality for ease of use.
- Its telephone commands section gives one-touch access to contacts, agendas, and a dial pad, whilst facilitating safe communication whilst on the road in the form of hands free calling and SMS messages being read out loud.
- The satellite navigation function features UK and Ireland mapping, CoPilot Premium software with 3D turn-by-turn navigation and live traffic alerts. Mapping is downloaded and stored onto the device, enabling GPS navigation without using any mobile data.
Cost
The app is free to download from iTunes and the Playstore, although it costs £19.99 to activate the satellite navigation. A free trial is available but the £20 fee does seem expensive, especially when you consider the amount of good quality, and free, smartphone-based satellite navigation maps on the market. R&Go is so far only available on the Renault Trafic and Renault Master.
