RX-8 Remote-Controlled By iPod Touch & RFID

Most car computers concentrate on adding internet access, big sound systems and complex GPS, but Jon Oxer went a few stages further.  His 2004 Mazda RX-8 is connected to the internet 24/7, can be remotely controlled via an iPod touch or iPhone, and unlocked via an RFID tag implanted in his arm.Video demo after the cut

The car computer – an Alix-1, which is fast enough to run Linux and share a 3G internet connection over multiple WiFi clients, but low-power enough to run for prolonged periods from a battery – is connected to the RX-8's OBD-II interface, so has access to the speed, RPM, intake manifold air temperature, engine load, fuel level and more.  It can then send that to a remote computer.

More impressively, though, the car can be remotely started or stopped by the iPod touch, together with operating the locks; Jon can unlock the car completely key-free, using an RFID tag that he's had surgically implanted in his left arm via an RFID reader mounted on one of the windows.  More details at Jon's project log.

[via Nowhere Else]