Forget fumbling for change, Audi is making cars that can ‘talk’ to toll booths

Many U.S. highways have already cashless toll booths that read transponders affixed to a vehicle’s windshield, but Audi is taking things a step further. The German automaker will install those transponders at the factory, so drivers won’t have to worry about messing up their windshields with velcro strips.

Audi’s “integrated toll module” (ITM) is built into the rearview mirror. It was developed by Gentex Corporation, which also supplies all auto-dimming rearview mirrors for Audi luxury cars. Audi claims the ITM is compatible with all toll roads in the U.S., as well as parts of Canada and Mexico.

Audi notes that the ITM decreases windshield clutter (admittedly not the worst problem drivers face) and eliminates the need to manage multiple accounts for different regional toll roads, which generally becomes an issue only on long road trips. Drivers can use Audi’s MMI infotainment system to turn the transponder on or off, and tell it if the vehicle is driving in a carpool lane.


Source : Foxnews