JLR gains a voice

Alexa integration for Pivi Pro product.

TWO conjoined British brands have become the latest to implement voice control in their products – but, cleverly, this isn’t just for new fare: Existing can also join the conversation.

Jaguar Land Rover announced today Amazon's virtual voice-controlled assistant Alexa will be added to its models. 

The addition will occur as part of an over-the-air update, and works for any products outfitted with the Pivi Pro infotainment system – 20,000 units in all, as an international count.  

The technology will also be fitted to new JLR vehicles from the factory.

Initially, however, it appears a full scale functionality that allows remote functions to be performed is only for vehicles sold in the United Kingdom and the United States.

The collaboration with Amazon gives owners the opportunity to make phone calls, adjust radio stations and set destinations on the navigation system by using voice commands.

The technology also offers news updates, weather forecasts, and the ability to manage smart home devices. Plus, of course, it’s a music manager.

Christian Mentz, Head of Alexa Automotive International, said in a media statement: “Customers around the world interact with Alexa billions of times each week, making life easier, more productive, and more fun.

“We’re excited to deliver that same delightful, convenient experience to Jaguar and Land Rover customers – and because Alexa is always getting smarter, new features and capabilities will be added over time and delivered to their vehicles automatically."