General Motors of Canada is bringing its OnStar Global Positioning System (gps) to Canada early this year.
Among other benefits, the safety feature allows the car maker to track gps-equipped cars by satellite, making it possible to dispatch emergency services in the event the car’s airbag is deployed and the driver cannot be contacted.
The automaker began offering this service in the u.s. on all Cadillac models in 1997 and is now making it available in North America for 24 of its 1998 models that will come prewired for OnStar.
Advertising has not been finalized but is expected to follow soon after the product is available – possibly in February.
gm also plans to have an OnStar display at all Canadian auto shows this year.
OnStar benefits include a red emergency button on the cellular phone to be used in case of a tire blowout or accident, as well as ‘concierge services’ – whereby the driver can ask the advisor for directions, if he or she is looking for something specific such as the nearest gas station, hotel or GM dealer.
As well, car owners can ask to have their car doors unlocked remotely if they’ve locked their keys inside or have their vehicle lights flashed and horn honked if they’re having trouble finding their car in a parking lot.
OnStar is separate division of General Motors Corporation. The system is not ordered as an accessory but is an aftermarket product purchased and installed through the gm dealer.
Todd Odell, GM Canada technology planner, says the Canadian price has not been finalized but the OnStar equipment, which includes a special cellular phone, is selling in the u.s. for us$895. The monthly Canadian fee for the OnStar service will be $29.95.
