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.

Click here to view the embedded video.

[via Nowhere Else]

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RX-8 remote-controlled by iPod touch & RFID