Opel is bringing OnStar, the leading brand of connected safety and security solutions, value-added mobility services and advanced information technology, to Europe.
Opel is planning to introduce OnStar across its passenger car range in selected European markets, beginning in 2015. More than 6.5 million customers in the U.S., Canada, China, and Mexico already use OnStar connected services.
“OnStar and Opel will make driving in Europe safer and more confident,” said Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann, CEO of Opel. “With OnStar, Opel drivers will enjoy high-speed data made possible by OnStar 4G LTE, and we will take a major step towards realizing our vision of connectivity – the Opel Monza Concept that we presented last fall.”
“The introduction of OnStar in Europe reaffirms our commitment to bring safety, security, and advanced connected communications services to consumers around the globe,” said Mary Chan, president, GM Global Connected Consumer organization. “OnStar’s 17 year heritage of technological innovation, experience in other markets and exceptional customer focus, will allow us to enter this new region with much success.”
Opel is planning to offer the following OnStar services in Europe:
1. 4G LTE connection: With OnStar 4G LTE, the car becomes a powerful, mobile wi-fi hotspot, giving easier access to apps and services that require a high-speed cellular or data connection, for up to seven mobile devices.
2. Emergency services: No matter what kind of trouble a driver encounters out on the road, OnStar is there to help. If the airbag deploys, OnStar can be alerted automatically. Even if it’s a medical emergency, or you witness a crash, just press your emergency button and OnStar can request help.
3. Remote link: Drivers can remotely connect to their vehicle with the OnStar RemoteLink mobile app. They can view oil life and tire pressure info on their smartphone, and lock or unlock their vehicle via smartphone. Destination addresses can be sent immediately to the on-board navigation system.
4. Stolen vehicle assistance: If a vehicle is ever stolen, OnStar can work with the police to recover it quickly and safely.
5. Roadside assistance: If drivers find themselves stranded, they are never alone. Whether it is an empty gas tank or a flat tire, a push of the emergency button is all it takes for OnStar to request that help be sent.
6. Vehicle diagnostics: OnStar sends a monthly Vehicle Diagnostics email with the most important vehicle data and information. A diagnostic check can be requested at any time at the push of a button.
7. Remote services: Drivers never have to worry about locking their keys in the car again. They just have to call OnStar, where an advisor will verify their account and send a signal to their vehicle to unlock the doors. Destination addresses can be sent immediately to the on-board navigation system by pressing the OnStar button, or via the RemoteLink app
Additional information about availability of vehicles sold in Europe with OnStar and pricing will be announced closer to the launch.
Top connectivity today: IntelliLink in ADAM, Insignia, Meriva and Co.
Opel already offers ultra-modern connectivity possibilities today – with the innovative infotainment system IntelliLink. The IntelliLink version in the urban lifestyle car Opel ADAM is especially sophisticated. The advanced and yet affordable system makes the small individualization champion the best connected small car on the market. The German trade magazines Auto Bild and Computer Bild recognized the IntelliLink infotainment system in the Opel ADAM with the “Connected Car Award“. A major benefit is that IntelliLink is compatible with both Apple iOS and Android software-operated smartphones. The full scope of options IntelliLink offers with its seven-inch color touchscreen in the ADAM also includes TuneIn, a global radio access app, BringGo, a full function navigation app, and Stitcher, a global podcast internet radio app. The onboard infotainment system’s various functions can be tailored to individual needs and preferences, bringing the smartphone owner’s personal environment into the Opel ADAM.
The ADAM also offers comprehensive Siri Eyes Free support over the iPhone. To activate Siri in Eyes Free mode, drivers connect their iPhone with IntelliLink via Bluetooth and then press the voice activation button on the steering wheel. Siri Eyes Free can be called up while other apps, such as BringGo Navigation, are running in the background. Music and navigation information is automatically muted during this time. The following functions are available with voice command over Siri Eyes Free:
- Telephone calls to saved contacts
- Play songs in the iTunes Library and switch between different music sources such as radio and iPod
- Listen to, write and send an iMessage or text message to a telephone number or saved contact
- Access calendar and add appointments
- Siri Eyes Free also provides answers to questions about sports results or the dates of national holidays, for example. To minimize distraction from road traffic and increase safety, the iPhone screen remains dark.
The high-tech IntelliLink system is not a privilege limited to ADAM. In various infotainment variants, it upgrades the new Insignia and Meriva as well as many other Opel models including the Astra, Mokka, Cascada and Zafira Tourer. The system impresses with direct, pleasant and user-friendly operation. While keeping their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road, drivers enjoy a broad spectrum of information and entertainment. Bluetooth phone connectivity and audio streaming are available, as is the display of images via USB connection, whereby the latter requires the vehicle to be parked. Fast and precise navigation is standard with the Navi 950 Europa IntelliLink system. Destinations can either be entered over the familiar control button or by voice command. The typical IntelliLink monitor surface guarantees excellent readability. In addition, the driver can also have the Navi 950 IntelliLink system read out incoming text messages.
