User interface for telematics systems

A combination of manual and voice input for a telematics system reduces visual distraction, works reliably, and is low cost. The telematics system uses a menu-based interface to communicate with the driver. This menu-based interface is accessible to the driver using both manual interactions and by voice. A reliable manual input mechanism is available using turn or push buttons in addition to voice recognition, which may not be accurate in all operating conditions. Voice recognition inputs can be limited to small numbers of words or phrases that can be more easily distinguished by a voice recognizer. Furthermore, voice outputs of the system are tailored to that they are readily recognizable to the driver. Manual input is optionally rejected in operating conditions in which such input is dangerous or prohibited.