SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Edmunds.com, the premier online resource for automotive information, launched today a new online guide to help consumers better understand the range of new entertainment and information technology that are now available in most new cars.

“Car Technology 101” features 15 new articles from Edmunds.com Technology Editor Doug Newcomb that cover electronic infotainment features such as Bluetooth, in-dash navigation and music integration systems. The articles explain the basics of these features and offer tips on how to assess them in a test drive. Videos are also included to give readers a better visual understanding of the systems and gadgets.

“Cars these days are filled with incredible technology that’s designed to make the driving experience more convenient and enjoyable, but owners can often have trouble evaluating these features when car shopping,” said Newcomb. “These articles educate consumers on the nuances of in-cabin technology and help them get the most out of their investments.”

To help consumers evaluate these technologies, Edmunds.com has assembled easy-to-follow checklists in each category that consumers can print out or access on their smartphones before or during their visits to the dealership. Checklists are already available for the following in-cabin systems:

• Bluetooth integration
• Media player integration (using such devices as the iPod)
• Car audio systems
• In-dash navigation systems
• Telematics systems (e.g., OnStar)

Car shoppers can learn all the basics of their new car’s technology in Edmunds.com’s “Car Technology 101” only at http://www.edmunds.com/car-technology/car-technology-101/.

And for car buyers who are worried about dealers trying to rush them through the evaluation process, Edmunds.com has several tips to find some time alone with your potential new car at http://www.edmunds.com/car-technology/how-to-test-drive-car-technology-without-dealer-interference.html.

About Edmunds.com, Inc. (http://www.edmunds.com/help/about/index.html)

Edmunds.com Inc. publishes Web sites that empower, engage and educate automotive consumers, enthusiasts and insiders. Edmunds.com, the premier online resource for automotive information, launched in 1995 as the first automotive information Web site and hosts the most established automotive community online. Its mobile site, accessible from any smartphone at www.edmunds.com, makes car pricing and other research tools available for car shoppers at dealerships and otherwise on the go. InsideLine.com is the most-read automotive enthusiast Web site. Its mobile site, accessible from any smartphone at www.insideline.com, features the wireless Web’s highest quality car photos and videos. AutoObserver.com provides insightful automotive industry commentary and analysis. Edmunds.com Inc. is headquartered in Santa Monica, California, and maintains a satellite office in suburban Detroit. Follow Edmunds.com on Twitter@edmunds and fan Edmunds.com on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/edmunds.