Cisco

Automakers are building cars that are designed for more than just driving. Thanks to hardware innovations, software integrations, and advances in connectivity, your car is now a place for entertainment, conversations, and more. The debut of the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class shows how it's also now a secure hybrid work environment. 

The 2024 E-Class is coming equipped with Webex Meetings and Calling, about a year after Cisco first extended Webex Meetings to vehicles, starting with a partnership with Ford. 

The new Mercedes-Benz vehicles will be equipped with Wi-Fi and cellular data connections, allowing drivers to download the Webex app from the Mercedes-Benz Car App Store. It will appear directly on the touchscreen of the vehicle's infotainment system, meaning you won't need your phone to connect to your meeting.

Also: The best hybrid cars

As with other in-vehicle Webex integrations, you can only use Webex's full capabilities -- including video meetings, automatic AI-powered transcription, content sharing, and reactions (such as a thumbs up or celebration emoji) -- when your car is parked. When the car is moving, you can use Webex in audio-only mode. 

Bringing Webex to your vehicle, Cisco explains, could be helpful for a range of scenarios -- such as a salesperson who needs to connect with a client while waiting to pick up their child from school, or an architect meeting with their team while at a job site. Cisco says Webex delivers a quality experience, even in a car, thanks to features such as noise cancellation, which can eliminate the background noise of traffic. 

Also: Samsung's Galaxy S23, Z Fold 4 gain new Webex meeting enhancements

"The expectations of consumers [for remote work] have changed dramatically the past few years," Jeetu Patel, EVP and GM of Cisco security and collaboration, said to . In cars specifically, he said, "idol time is more productive than it used to be."

As work becomes more viable in a greater number of public places, "more people will sit in the car to take a call if they want privacy," he explained. "It becomes almost a mini office area." 

The trend will continue as cars become more autonomous, Patel said. Physical spaces in cars will change -- steering wheels may disappear, seating arrangements may become more social -- in a way that enables more productivity and collaboration. 

Also: Which Tesla is right for you? The top S, 3, X, and Y models compared

The new E Class vehicles are expected to arrive at dealerships this spring.

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