Dodge Debuts Owner Apps On Android, Blackberry, And iPhone

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Richard Read

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Dodge Brand and Mopar Introduce Vehicle Information Smartphone Applications.

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Smartphones have moved one step closer to controlling our lives: Dodge recently announced that it has launched owner's manual apps on the Android, Blackberry, and iPhone platforms. The apps offer a range of features that supplement and enhance the existing hard-copy manuals and DVDs that come with Dodge vehicles.

First and foremost, these apps are portable, easily navigable owner's manuals. Need to know what that flashing light on your dash is trying to tell you, or where you'll find the jack in your new car? A couple of clicks through the app, and you're in business. Handy video clips provide overviews of certain features. Dodge also points out that it can update the apps on a regular basis with warranty info and such. (We assume Dodge can also use the apps to notify owners of recalls, when necessary.)

The apps also allow users to identify and find parts, and in the case of emergency, they can connect users to Customer Care and summon 24-hour roadside assistance. There's even a social media feature that puts Dodge owners in contact with fellow owners and enthusiasts.

The apps have been developed by Tweddle Group Technologies -- the same company that put together the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee owner's manual app, plus others for the Ram 1500, Chrysler 300, Chrysler 200, and Chrysler Town & Country. At the moment, the Dodge app lineup includes the 2011 Avenger, Charger, Durango, Grand Caravan, and Journey, and we expect to see other Dodge vehicles included shortly.

For additional details, check the press release below.

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Dodge Brand and Mopar Introduce Vehicle Information Smartphone Applications

• Free new feature available for all Dodge vehicles
• New Mopar apps offer access to Customer Care and 24-hour road-side assistance, product-feature video demonstrations and connections with fellow owners via the company’s brands on social media sites
• One-stop spot for general information about customer’s Dodge vehicle, including operation, maintenance and warranty information
• App available for download to smartphones powered by Android, iTunes or BlackBerry platforms

The new Mopar apps provide vehicle operation, maintenance and warranty information, as well as product feature video demonstrations, connections with fellow owners via the company’s brands on social media sites and access to customer care and 24-hour road-side assistance. Because the system is digital, it also allows Dodge to make updates to the “electronic” owner’s manual in real-time.

"Dodge vehicles feature the latest technology to keep our active customers connected and on the move," said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO — Dodge Car Brand. “This is an example of how we are better connecting with our Dodge owners, responding to their needs and growing our relationship with them.”

New Dodge Durango and Charger owners can now download vehicle information applications to select personal smartphones. The new Mopar feature, developed by Michigan-based Tweddle Group, is designed to support vehicles in the U.S. market. The applications will first be available for iPhone and later for BlackBerry and Android devices on major mobile carriers. Applications for the Avenger, Journey and Grand Caravan will be available in mid-January 2011.