Half of Chinese cars to have telematics by 2018


Almost 50% of Chinese cars will be fitted with telematics in as little as five year's time.

New Pateo system in Chinese

The new Pateo Systems infotainment package for China Image: Telematics News

According to consulting firm, ABI, the boom in the high-end luxury car segment and a rise in disposable incomes rise means cars fitted with high-tech video and entertainment systems will become increasingly popular in China.

In a recently-published report, the consultancy predicts that over 20 domestic OEMs will launch telematics services for their vehicles within the next 2-3 years, although much of the technology will likely be acquired from foreign companies.

Although the Chinese auto market has enjoyed rapid growth over the last decade, manufacturers are not short of competition and equipping cars with telematics systems could be a key differentiator or unique selling point.

Vehicles fitted with these systems will likely appeal to parents, who have children to entertain, as well as business people, who are more likely to be chauffeured around town.