OnStar, the remote vehicle information company that provides a number of services to car owners, announced this week that it had launched a new website – MyVolt.com – that will allow Chevy Volt owners to remotely control various vehicle functions.
The MyVolt.com site will provide for a number of new features, including the ability to monitor battery status and change charge settings remotely and even to remotely start the car in order to ensure the heat is on and functional in cold temperatures.
OnStar president Chris Preuss said "the technology is simple, intuitive and helps subscribers work cooperatively with their utility company to manage real-time load requirements that are both economically and environmentally friendly." He also pointed out that the website would make the vehicle Smart Grid-ready, in reference to the environmental transportation initiative by that name.
Social media is another of the features that will be present on MyVolt.com, allowing users to compare mileage and battery charge statistics with other owners. Facebook and Twitter connectivity will allow Volt owners to share those and other aspects of their driving histories, the company said.
In addition to the website, OnStar said that Volt owners would be able to sign up for a monthly email that would provide a summary of the results of a number of vehicle statistics, such as tire pressure, maintenance status, and even their OnStar subscription information.
Experts say that GPS tracking and connectivity systems like those provided by OnStar are increasingly popular in the automotive world, and that such tracking data could be used to improve car safety. This would cut down on auto accidents and car insurance rates.