Abstract: Methods and systems for providing instruction for new drivers of a vehicle are provided. In accordance with one embodiment, a system includes one or more sensors and a processor. The one or more sensors are configured to monitor operation of a vehicle and environment surrounding the vehicle. The processor is coupled to the one or more sensors, and is configured to at least facilitate identifying a condition pertaining to the operation of the vehicle and the surrounding environment; and providing a notification, for a driver of the vehicle, with instructions pertaining to the condition.

Abstract: A method and system for generating an alert to one or more occupants of a vehicle are provided. In one embodiment, the method includes receiving an input signal from a vehicle safety system. The input signal is indicative of an alert condition (e.g. an impending collision). The method further includes generating an output signal responsive to said input signal and wirelessly transmitting the output signal to the portable device. The portable device, such as a cellular communications device, has a haptic actuator and is configured to be mechanically disconnected from the vehicle while in physical contact with an occupant of the vehicle. The output signal, which may be transmitted directly to the portable device using short-range wireless communication protocols, is configured to activate the haptic actuator to cause a vibratory movement of the portable device and alert the vehicle occupant to the alert condition.

Abstract: A system and method of retrieving a vehicle includes generating a path from a final destination to a starting position, receiving a command to retrieve the vehicle, and autonomously operating the vehicle along the path from the final vehicle destination to the starting vehicle position.

Abstract: A method and system for generating an alert to one or more occupants of a vehicle are provided. In one embodiment, the method includes receiving an input signal from a vehicle safety system. The input signal is indicative of an alert condition (e.g. an impending collision). The method further includes generating an output signal responsive to said input signal and wirelessly transmitting the output signal to the portable device. The portable device, such as a cellular communications device, has a haptic actuator and is configured to be mechanically disconnected from the vehicle while in physical contact with an occupant of the vehicle. The output signal, which may be transmitted directly to the portable device using short-range wireless communication protocols, is configured to activate the haptic actuator to cause a vibratory movement of the portable device and alert the vehicle occupant to the alert condition.

Abstract: A system and method for selectively providing a building door reminder to an operator of a vehicle. The system carries out the method which includes the steps of: detecting that the vehicle is at a door reminder location at which there are one or more building structure doors, wherein the vehicle is configured to selectively provide a door alert to an operator of the vehicle upon departure of the vehicle from the door reminder location; determining that the vehicle has departed from the door reminder location; processing data available at the vehicle and, based on the processing, determining that the door alert is to be provided to the operator. The door alert can be provided to the operator at the vehicle via a vehicle user interface that provides within the vehicle an audible notification, visual notification, and/or tactile notification.

Abstract: A system and method of retrieving a vehicle includes generating a path from a final destination to a starting position, receiving a command to retrieve the vehicle, and autonomously operating the vehicle along the path from the final vehicle destination to the starting vehicle position.