October 12, 2017
, Auburn Hills, Mich.
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The 2018 Jeep® Cherokee Latitude equipped with an all-new Tech Connect Package enhances the owner connection with the introduction of the new Uconnect skill for Amazon Alexa. Alexa is Amazon’s voice service and is behind devices such as the Amazon Echo, Echo Dot and Echo Show. Alexa provides a set of capabilities referred to as skills, which enable customers to make voice-activated requests.
The Jeep Cherokee’s new Tech Connect Package responds to a multitude of voice commands via Alexa. The menu of commands can start the vehicle’s engine, lock and unlock doors, send navigation instructions to the vehicle, plus check fuel and tire pressure levels.
“The introduction of Amazon Alexa to the Jeep Cherokee allows us to meet consumers’ increasing desire for innovation of information,” said Mike Manley, Head of Jeep Brand – FCA Global. “Jeep Cherokee’s new Tech Connect Package allows customers to minimize the everyday stresses of busy lifestyles by providing them with a variety of ways to stay conveniently connected to their vehicles, while making every drive exceptionally informative, entertaining and unique.”
With the purchase of a 2018 Jeep Cherokee Latitude equipped with the new Tech Connect Package, consumers will receive an Amazon Echo Dot, a three-month subscription to the Amazon Music Unlimited Family Plan – the on-demand full catalog streaming service with access to tens of millions of songs, thousands of hand-curated playlists and personalized stations – and natural language voice controls via Alexa. Also included is a three-month membership to Audible, the world’s largest seller and producer of digital spoken-word entertainment, with more than 375,000 audio programs from leading audiobook publishers, broadcasters, entertainers, magazine and newspaper publishers, and business information providers.
Jeep Cherokee Latitude models equipped with the new Tech Connect Package exemplify a sleek and distinguished appearance with Diamond Black Crystal-painted lower cladding and gloss black finishes on the chin applique, upper and lower grille surround, roof rails and badging. In addition, 18-inch painted aluminum wheels add a premium touch and road presence.
Inside, Jeep Cherokee Latitude models equipped with the Tech Connect Package receive the Uconnect 8.4-inch infotainment center with 3G connectivity, rear backup assist and one-touch up/down front windows, plus Premium Audio Group and a one-year Sirius XM Satellite Radio subscription.
In addition, beginning Nov. 1, consumers who purchase any 2018 Jeep Cherokee with the Uconnect 8.4-inch infotainment center can download the Alexa skills to their own Echo device.
To initiate the Uconnect skill for Amazon Alexa, owners must register with Uconnect Access connected services, then search for and enable the Uconnect skill in the skills store in the Alexa app. Once the customer’s Uconnect Access and Amazon accounts are linked, customers can ask any Alexa device to open the Uconnect skill.
“Customers with an Alexa device in their home can simply ask Alexa to start their Jeep Cherokee, send directions to their navigation system and more, before they even leave their house,” said Ned Curic, Vice President Automotive at Amazon Alexa. “Voice is a big part of the future because it can simplify everyday tasks like these and we are excited that Jeep is bringing this level of connectivity to customers.”
Arriving at dealer showrooms in November, the Jeep Cherokee Latitude with the new Tech Connect Package will be available for a U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $26,190 for 4×2 models or $27,690 for 4×4 models, plus $1,095 destination charge.
About Uconnect
Launched in 2003, Uconnect systems are FCA in-vehicle connectivity centers, designed to keep consumers connected, entertained and, most importantly, focused on the road.
Each FCA vehicle comes equipped with a Uconnect system that provides drivers with a range of available communication, navigation, entertainment features and connected services, including:
- Handsfree calling or texting solutions that keep drivers productive, talking and connected
- Entertainment and audio options that include AM, FM, HD Radio or satellite radio, Bluetooth streaming audio, CD Player, USB and AUX port
- Navigation options that help provide a stress-free commute with easy access to points of interest, well-designed maps and turn-by-turn directions that are broadcast over the vehicle’s audio system
An included trial of connected services also is available on properly equipped vehicles. These real-time services include a monthly vehicle health report, vehicle health alert, a smartphone app that enables owners to remotely lock, unlock or start their vehicle, locate their vehicle and more; 9-1-1 call and Assist Buttons on the rearview mirror that will connect vehicle owners to help at the push of a button.
Vehicle owners can access and control their Uconnect system’s features and services by using voice recognition technology, steering wheel controls, touchscreens or traditional knobs and buttons.
About Jeep Brand
Built on more than 75 years of legendary heritage, Jeep is the authentic SUV with class-leading capability, craftsmanship and versatility for people who seek extraordinary journeys. The Jeep brand delivers an open invitation to live life to the fullest by offering a full line of vehicles that continue to provide owners with a sense of security to handle any journey with confidence.
The Jeep vehicle lineup consists of the Cherokee, Compass, Grand Cherokee, Renegade and Wrangler. To meet consumer demand around the world, all Jeep models sold outside North America are available in both left and right-hand drive configurations and with gasoline and diesel powertrain options.
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