Mike Peterson
A home automation blogger has managed to add a Jaguar I-Pace electric vehicle to a HomeKit setup, allowing multiple car functions to be controlled by the system.
By integrating a HomeBridge plugin into the Jaguar's InControl API, Siobhan Ellis was able to create a system that allows the car to be monitored, controlled, and automated.
The setup allows basic data like charging levels and current interior temperature to be read in HomeKit. Ellis can also send commands to the vehicle, including a command to start charging the battery.
There are possibilities for automation, as well. Ellis points out that the system can automatically pre-condition a car based on calendar events. The system can also automatically unlock the vehicle in the morning as well.
As the blogger points out, the system requires a fair bit of manual configuration, but some shortcomings were overcome with hardware tinkering. Ellis added wireless CarPlay through a CPLAY2air adapter and installed a MagSafe charger on the dashboard to charge an iPhone.
It isn't a plug-and-play system, but the blog post, first spotted by MacRumors, shows how useful it could be to add a vehicle to HomeKit.
Although Apple or vehicle manufacturers haven't officially touted car automation via HomeKit, there are some signs that it could be a mainstream solution in the future. Apple is working on a new CarKey feature and has closely collaborated with automakers like BMW and Porsche to bring Apple functionality to more vehicles.
William Gallagher
Christine McKee
AppleInsider Staff
Chip Loder
Malcolm Owen
11 Comments
That's stupidly awesome!
Am I old in that I thought I saw a CB Radio handset in that first picture!
Great bit of news. I'm sorely tempted to have a go at connecting up my I-Pace however I'm not sure what extra it would give me over the functionality of apps like 'MyPace' and the JLR In-Control app. Still kudos to the person who did this.
According to the MR article, HomeBridge is the key. HomeBridge is awesome btw. Additionally, in the comment section, members highlighted that HomeBridge also has integration for Mercedes, Tesla, and Volvo. I am assuming it's also available for more brands as well. This is probably not for the novice tinkerer but is cool as all get out nonetheless.
The Jag is probably still using Lucas electrics :)
No lower case “i” as in “iPace”? WOW. I’m used to every company pathetically copying Apple.
Remember iGoogle? 🤣