Apple’s claim that 80% of new car buyers wouldn’t consider a vehicle without CarPlay is a testament to the feature’s popularity. While its accuracy is debatable, there’s no denying drivers’ fondness for the iPhone integrated experience. Recognizing this trend, vehicle manufacturers have no choice but to offer CarPlay, except for General Motors.
Peterbilt, a major truck manufacturer, has joined the trend by introducing CarPlay support in its new models. The company’s upgraded infotainment system, now available as an option across its conventional range, features CarPlay as a key highlight. Truck orders can include CarPlay support starting this month.
To accommodate driver preferences, Peterbilt offers both wired and wireless CarPlay connections. While the latter provides a cable free experience, it can drain the iPhone’s battery on long trips, necessitating additional charging. The upgraded infotainment system in Peterbilt’s new trucks will offer a comprehensive suite of features, including AM/FM radio, weather information, SiriusXM satellite radio, and the ability to connect an analog HD camera with split-screen support.
Wireless connectivity for Android devices, likely indicating Android Auto integration, will also be available. While the company hasn’t provided specific details, it’s clear that truck drivers will benefit from the inclusion of dedicated navigation software, a crucial tool for large vehicles. Although CarPlay offers a convenient solution for many drivers, its limitations for truck navigation remain.
Google Maps and Waze, while popular on CarPlay, are not designed for truck routing and can lead to incorrect guidance. Peterbilt addresses this issue by offering dedicated software with free map updates for three years. As the adoption of CarPlay continues to grow, anticipation for the upcoming second-generation experience is high. Apple showcased CarPlay 2.0 at WWDC in 2022, and several automakers announced plans to integrate it into their vehicles.
However, with the recent Apple event concluding without any mention of CarPlay 2.0, its availability remains uncertain. While the second generation CarPlay will still require an iPhone, it promises deeper integration with the vehicle’s systems, offering access to more functions and controlling all screens on the dashboard, including the instrument cluster.
