News · Issy-les-Moulineaux· Mar 7, 2007

Wavecom wireless solutions selected by PSA Peugeot Citroën for a new generation of intelligent cars

Wavecom (Nasdaq: WVCM, Euronext: AVM) today announced that PSA Peugeot Citroën, a global leader in advanced automobiles has selected Wavecom wireless technology for integration in its future generations of intelligent cars.

Through the emergence of new mobile communication technology, using on-board telematics functionality, leading car manufacturers, like PSA Peugeot Citroën, can now propose new in-vehicle services for enhanced safety and a better mobility. "We are pleased to lead the way in Europe for in-board communications and emergency services that should significantly reduce the risk of fatalities on European roadways," commented PSA Peugeot Citroën head of telematic applications, Mr. Arnaud de Meulemeester. He added, "This leading-edge technology has allowed us to develop new service offerings for car-owners that should increase automotive safety and enhance overall automobile performance." 

PSA Peugeot Citroën plans to equip more than half of a million cars over a four-year period starting in 2009 with cellular communications capabilities. This technology supports integrated, quality hands-free voice communication as well as PSA Peugeot Citroën's emergency call management service, "Peugeot and Citroën Urgence" (Peugeot and Citroën Emergency). This emergency service opens a direct voice contact in case of an accident and if needed, immediately dispatches rescue teams to the exact location where the accident has occurred, thanks to on-board GPS localization capability. PSA Peugeot Citroën announced recently that its emergency call system has been certified by the French department of public safety, confirming the carmaker's lead in tertiary safety. 

The next generation telematics functionality for PSA Peugeot Citroën cars will be built on Wavecom's Q2686 Wireless CPU® and will use Wavecom's Open AT® Software Suite offering a variety of features to customize solutions for the automotive industry. 

Wavecom has been a supplier to PSA Peugeot Citroën's systems integrators since 2001. Frank Souguir, Wavecom Group Vice President for the EMEA region, said, "The ability to have regular data transfer between cars and car manufacturers from the time they roll off the factory floor is expected to trigger a whole host of additional services from the car manufacturers that will ultimately enhance car performance, reduce recalls and increase driver and passenger security," adding "Wavecom is excited to play a major role in the development of this leading-edge technology."