A method of interfacing a portable transceiver in a telematics system comprising the steps of: a) bringing a portable wireless transceiver into proximity of a vehicle, wherein the portable wireless transceiver has short range and long range wireless transceiving functions; b) automatically switching the portable wireless transceiver from a power-off state to a power-on state in response to a short range wireless signal from the vehicle; and c) operating the portable wireless transceiver as a telecommunications device for at least one system within the vehicle through a short range wireless link.