On Monday, November 16, Mercedes-Benz announced an innovative telematics platform to improve the company's navigation system with information on traffic and weather and to allow drivers to unlock their vehicles with their iPhones or BlackBerries.

The system, christened mbrace, is based on services from Hughes Telematics whose servers will handle the online communications, replacing the Tele Aid system, a decade-old package that has grown outdated. (A conversion package for current Tele Aid customers will be made available at dealerships.)

A basic mbrace package will come as a standard feature on most models and will include built-in GPS and two-way data communications over the Verizon network. This will include automatic collision notifications and emergency calling. Additional available features include route planning with Google Maps that can be sent directly to the vehicle from a home computer.

Applications for the iPhone and BlackBerry will allow for remote vehicle entry from virtually anywhere the owner can get a cell phone signal. The applications will also allow for vehicle location complete with directions for those drivers who routinely forget where they've parked.

New car buyers will receive six months of free service with a year of basic service then costing $280. A $20 upgrade to "mbrace plus" will put the driver in touch with a human concierge for traffic data or even making restaurant reservations.