OnStar "Stolen Vehicle Slowdown" Announced

[Kirby]

WASHINGTON D.C. – General Motors (GM) and OnStar demonstrated today a prototype technology that can help OnStar further assist in the safe recovery of subscribers’ stolen vehicles and reduce fatalities and injuries resulting from police chases. This new technology, known as Stolen Vehicle Slowdown, is the latest enhancement to OnStar’s stolen vehicle service and can allow OnStar advisors working with law enforcement to send a signal to a subscriber’s stolen vehicle to reduce engine power slowing the vehicle down gradually.
...
The process for Stolen Vehicle Slowdown is:
• Once the vehicle has been reported stolen to law enforcement, the subscriber can call OnStar and request Stolen Vehicle Location Assistance. OnStar will confirm the subscriber has not opted out of the Stolen Vehicle Slowdown service.
• OnStar will use real-time GPS technology to attempt to pinpoint the exact location of the stolen vehicle and provide this information to law enforcement to help them recover the vehicle.
• When law enforcement has established a clear line of sight of the stolen vehicle, law enforcement may request OnStar to slow it down remotely.
• Safeguards will be in place to ensure that the correct vehicle is slowed down.
• OnStar then sends a remote signal to the vehicle that interacts with the Powertrain system to reduce engine power which will slow the vehicle down gradually.

 

[Big Daddy]

Super techmology and a wonderful idea. This has the potential to save many lifes and keep not only other motorists safe, but the Law Enforcement Officer as well. Kudos to OnStar!

 

[codex57]

I'm surprised this didn't happen sooner. I hope the technology spreads.

 

[frolf]

what happens when big brother gets the button. no thanks onstar, i already don't like you because you can unlock doors and track where i am. the life of a spy, you gotta watch out for these things.

 

[MyHarley]

The other day a customer was telling me this story about Onstar. His friend had a one car accident and the air bag deployed automatically notifying Onstar of an accident and called the police. Of course he was nabbed for DWI as well. My customer didnt think it was a good idea after that. I'm thinking it was a great idea for the masses and he shouldnt of been drinking and driving anyways. And if he had been really hurt, he would of appreciated the Onstar services. I want them to be able to unlock the doors when I'm forgetful.

For years I have said it would make a good Stephen King movie. When I had a Verizon guy several years ago that took a liking just by phone conversations, he would call periodically and say oh I see you're in such and such city. Now that was strange. Thank God he went off the deep end and got fired and did not have the capability anymore. If they all banded together, the car service, the cable service, the phone service, etc. and called just to mention what we were doing and locked the doors and wouldnt let us out on some deserted road.........so laughing so laughing.

We are watched......but as my Mother always said.....make sure you're acting appropriately, somebody is always watching.

 

[MrElussive]

Cool idea for car thieves who are caught in the act.

 

[tool fan]

They should install the On Star castration service as well...... if you are dumb enough to steal a car with On Star to begin with.... you should not be able to procreate.................. What??????? is that to harsh????

 

[Big Daddy]

HAha good one Mike, I could not agree more!