Fiat and Microsoft will launch a new in-car communications system called Blue&Me, based on Windows Mobile for Automotive, at the Geneva Motor Show (February 28 –March 12).

The Blue&Me system is voice-activated and can be integrated into a vehicle’s existing cockpit controls via any Bluetooth-based mobile phone.

It allows users to listen to music stored on a mobile phone and in MP3 readers or USB removable sticks. This is possible through a USB port, located in the glovebox, which enables the connection to any digital system with the corresponding port.

The system will become available exclusively on new Fiat and Alfa Romeo cars as well as on Fiat light commercial vehicles. The Grande Punto, Alfa Romeo 159, 159 Sportwagon, Brera and Spider will be equipped with this system from the summer, followed by the other models in Fiat’s range.

Details of vehicle applications and availability will be released as models equipped with Blue&Me arrive in individual markets.

Blue&Me is the first product to follow the formation of a long-term strategic industrial partnership between Microsoft and Fiat, which started in July 2004.