Mercedes-Benz turns the new CLA into a mobile office with Microsoft Teams integration

In recent years, what is known as “teleworking” has become increasingly common, but until now this concept referred exclusively to working from home online instead of going to the office. From 2025 onwards, the definition of “teleworking” will be somewhat broader, as cars are also becoming a new space in which to hold online work meetings, even while driving.

Mercedes-Benz is leading this new trend by allowing drivers of some of its models, starting with the new electric CLA, to use the vehicle’s built-in selfie camera to take part in Microsoft Teams video calls. The company states that this feature complies with the regulations of each country and has been approved for use while in motion, with safety as a priority.

When the vehicle is stationary, the driver can see the video of the meeting, but when the vehicle starts moving, the video transmission is automatically deactivated to minimize distractions and ensure safe driving. However, the other participants on the call can continue to see the driver’s image, although the driver also has the option to turn off the camera and only have audio.

Unity is strength

This innovative feature is part of a collaboration between the German manufacturer and Microsoft, which will go even further and will not be limited solely to using the Teams app for video conferencing. Initially introduced in the new electric CLA equipped with the latest version of the MB.OS infotainment system, compatible Mercedes-Benz vehicles will not only allow video conferencing via Teams, but will also integrate Microsoft Intune, which separates personal and work data to create a secure work environment, as well as the Microsoft Copilot artificial intelligence assistant, with which it will be possible to summarize emails and manage daily tasks through voice commands.

“Our collaboration with Microsoft allows our customers to stay productive while on the move. By incorporating tools such as Microsoft Teams into our MB.OS operating system, we offer an intuitive and secure experience that optimizes efficiency without compromising attention on the road.”

With these new capabilities resulting from the collaboration with Microsoft, Mercedes-Benz allows its vehicles to become a “third workspace,” complementing the traditional office and home. A good solution for increasing your work productivity, with the drawback, however, that you will no longer have that well-deserved moment of calm and disconnection when getting into the car to commute.