Clever Collector Mods Mitsubishi 3000GT Car Phone To Work Like an iPhone
Restoring classic cars to their former glory is a common practice, but what about old car phones? In a unique twist, a software engineer, Jeff Lau, known online as UselessPickles, showcased a remarkable restoration project involving a 1993 Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4’s car phone. Let’s dive into this fascinating blend of nostalgia and modern technology.
Reviving a Classic Phone
The Mitsubishi 3000GT came equipped with a “DiamondTel” handset and hands-free system, which became obsolete when analog cell services were discontinued in 2008. After three years of dedicated work, Lau ingeniously restored the phone’s functionality by crafting a custom Bluetooth adapter. By integrating this adapter between the stock phone transceiver and hands-free control unit, Lau successfully connected the vintage car phone to modern cellular networks.
Bridging Past and Present
But Lau’s modifications didn’t end there. When paired with a smartphone, the original handset now displays device names and signal strengths. Moreover, the car’s hands-free microphone now relays voice commands to the smartphone’s virtual assistant, empowering it to interact with Apple’s Siri seamlessly. The result? A futuristic hands-free system with a touch of vintage charm—no touchscreen distraction needed.
A Glimpse into the Future
While the concept of resurrecting old car phones may not spark an immediate trend due to the intricacies of individual systems and the time investment involved, Lau’s project sets a precedent. It showcases the remarkable potential to bring back these iconic relics of the past to life. Who knows, maybe one day, we’ll witness a resurgence of retro car phones gracing our vehicles once more—a delightful nod to the nostalgia of yesteryears.
Conclusion
Jeff Lau’s ingenious modification of the Mitsubishi 3000GT car phone demonstrates the perfect blend of vintage aesthetics and modern functionality. This remarkable restoration project paves the way for potential innovations in integrating classic car features with today’s technology, offering a glimpse of the exciting possibilities that lie ahead for automotive enthusiasts.
FAQs
Can I retrofit my old car phone with modern features?
While projects like Jeff Lau’s restoration of the Mitsubishi 3000GT car phone show it’s possible, the process can be complex and time-consuming. It involves custom engineering and may not be feasible for all car phone models.
Are there ready-made kits available for restoring old car phones?
As of now, there aren’t off-the-shelf restoration kits widely available for old car phones due to the unique configurations of vintage systems. However, with the right expertise and creativity, enthusiasts can explore custom solutions like Jeff Lau’s Bluetooth adapter integration.
How can I get in touch with Jeff Lau for more information?
For inquiries or tips related to Jeff Lau’s project, you can reach out via email at james@thedrive.com.
By breathing new life into a classic car phone, Jeff Lau’s project inspires a wave of creativity and nostalgia within the automotive community. Who knows what other treasures from the past could be revitalized with a touch of modern innovation?
