The new Volkswagen Passat will come equipped with the PREMIUM handset integration product from Nokia Automotive, harnessing Bluetooth wireless technology. This makes Volkswagen the first automaker to offer its customers a factory-fitted automotive communication solution that supports the Bluetooth SIM Access Profile. The handset integration product provides compatibility with a wide range of mobile phones from various manufacturers. A mobile phone holder is also offered as an option for users who wish to charge their phone in the car.

The user enjoys all the benefits of a car phone with external GSM antenna, excellent audio quality in handsfree mode, and comfortable operation tailored to the needs of the driver. Many applications can be conveniently controlled via an external alphanumerical keyboard, the multifunctional steering wheel or voice dial. At the same time, the PREMIUM handset integration product provides yet another advantage of handsfree systems - the ability to access personal contact data stored in the mobile phone using Bluetooth wireless technology.

Via the Bluetooth SIM Access Profile, the PREMIUM handset integration product can access the SIM card of the compatible mobile phone and log onto the GSM network. As soon as the user gets out of the car or presses a certain button on his mobile phone, the receiving mode is deactivated and the mobile phone automatically logs back onto the mobile network.

Optimally integrated into the vehicle environment, this solution includes key functions such as radio mute and downloading of phonebook entries from compatible mobile phones via Bluetooth wireless technology, as well as additional basic functions such as voice dial, taking and ending calls, and redial.

"For the first time, an automaker is offering a communication solution using the Bluetooth SIM Access Profile that is factory-fitted in the vehicle. This represents an important engineering achievement: we have taken a further step toward universality in the domain of factory-installed, integrated communication solutions: Users looking for wide-ranging compatibility with a variety of mobile phones have a choice between an aftermarket solution or a factory-fitted system," says Marcus Stahl, General Manager Nokia Automotive.

"The Nokia PREMIUM handset integration product surely marks a milestone in our longstanding cooperation with Nokia Automotive. The Volkswagen Passat can now offer a factory-fitted automotive communication solution that could not be more convenient and which meets the needs of even the most demanding automotive communications user," comments Dr. Karsten Michels, Director Infotainment of Volkswagen AG.

The PREMIUM handset integration product is available in the new Volkswagen Passat during summer 2005.