Chevy Cruze: The Quiet American Zeigler Chevrolet Schaumburg

“I have a pretty acute sense of hearing,” says Frank Delekta, a development engineer for General Motors. “Outside of work, if I ask someone ‘Did you hear that?’ the answer is almost always ‘No.’ I hear noises that others don’t.”
But Delekta’s not complaining—and neither are drivers of the Chevy Cruze: Thanks to the former’s sharp hearing, the latter enjoy one of the quietest cabins on the road. Extensive efforts by Delekta and the crew at GM’s Squeak and Rattle Lab made sure of that.
Their work throughout the Cruze’s development process led to the use of a number of volume-reducing measures, including an innovative “Liquid Applied Sound Deadener.” This material is applied to key areas of the Cruze’s body structure, then melts into place as the car’s body travels through the paint oven. In addition, the Cruze’s doors are triple sealed and feature fiberglass “blankets” that act as barriers to noise, water and disruptive airflow.
Extensive real-world and in-lab testing was done as well, with engineers driving thousands of miles in a wide variety of different road conditions in all markets where the Cruze is sold, and putting the car through its paces in special GM labs specifically designed for extreme conditions. Among them: A climactic anechoic chamber used to evaluate sounds at temperatures ranging from -20 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
“A component may squeak or rattle at 100 degrees but not below freezing or vice versa,” explained Delekta.
All that testing resulted in improvements to some 74 different components to help create a significantly quieter interior for the Cruze—and a significantly more enjoyable driving experience for hundreds of thousands of Cruze owners

For more information about the Chevy Cruze visit Zeigler Chevrolet Schaumburg at 1230 E Golf Rd Schaumburg Il 60173 or call us at 847-882-2200

Chevy Cruze Cruises to Its Millionth Sale Zeigler Chevrolet Schaumburg

Chevy Cruze Cruises to Its Millionth Sale

by Chevrolet in the News

Consider it perfect timing: The same week that Chevrolet celebrated its first hundred years in business, it kicked off its second century in fine style by selling its millionth Chevy Cruze.
“I can’t think of a better birthday present,” said Chris Perry, vice president for global Chevrolet marketing and strategy. “Cruze’s combination of style, comfort, fuel-efficiency and safety is a hit across the globe. Our customers know a winner when they drive it.”
That’s certainly the case here in the U.S., where the Cruze remains the best-selling compact sedan in the country through October, with sales up more than 110 percent as compared to the car it replaced in Chevy’s lineup. Further, the Cruze—now sold in more than 100 countries around the world—is the fourth-best-selling car in its segment internationally, and in seventh place overall.
Also notable is that the Cruze has been very effective in attracting both new customers and those who are new to the Chevy brand. Chevrolet has grown its market share among the “millennial” generation by a full percentage point already in 2011, while 42 percent of this year’s U.S. Cruze buyers have traded in vehicles from outside the General Motors family. The No. 1 vehicle swapped for the Cruze: The Honda Civic.
This kind of success is sure to continue, too, as Chevy isn’t resting on its laurels going forward. For example, even though the Cruze already was the most fuel-efficient gas-only car in America when it was introduced, boasting EPA ratings of 28 mpg city/42 mpg highway/33 mpg combined with a manual transmission, Chevrolet engineers pushed the envelope further. As a result of numerous upgrades for the new model year, the 2012 Cruze Eco with an automatic transmission gained 2 mpg on the highway and 1 mpg in combined driving. Its new EPA ratings: 26 mpg city/39 mpg highway/31 mpg combined.
And that car, along with the entire 2012 Cruze lineup, is on sale at Chevrolet dealerships now.

For more information visit www.zeiglerchevroletschaumburg.com or call us at 847-882-2200

The 2013 Diesel Cruze Is Comming To Schaumburg IL Zeigler Chevrolet

50 MPG Chevy Cruze Diesel to be Sold, Built in U.S.

by Chevrolet in the News on October 21, 2011

Chevrolet’s commitment to a fuel-efficient future – and support for U.S. manufacturing – were both in the news recently when GM announced it would build the 2013 Chevy Cruze diesel, expected to achieve about 50 mpg highway, at its plant in Lordstown, Ohio. The automaker also will invest $5.5 million in the facility to prepare for the new vehicle; it’s a necessary expense, since the team at Lordstown is currently running at near full capacity to keep up with demand of the gas-engined Cruze.
The popular compact was the best-selling vehicle in its segment in September, as well as through September, and has sold more than 212,000 units in its first 12 months in the U.S. marketplace. The diesel variant is slated to build on that success by representing yet another boost to Chevy’s ongoing efforts to improve the fuel economy of the Cruze lineup.
The Cruze Eco configured with a six-speed manual transmission already owns the highest fuel-efficiency mark of any gas-only vehicle sold in this country – a sterling 42 mpg – and that goes with impressive ratings of 28 mpg city and 33 mpg combined. But for the 2012 model year, Chevrolet engineers were able to squeeze even more miles per gallon out of the Cruze Eco outfitted with its six-speed automatic; the car is now up to 39 mpg highway, which represents a gain of more than 5 percent as compared to the 2011 model. Further, the peppy Cruze turbo received 2-mpg improvements across the board for 2012 and can deliver an EPA line of 26/38/30 with its six-speed autobox.
The next leap forward, the Cruze diesel, will get things jumping in the 2013 calendar year.

THE ALL NEW 2012 CHEVY SPARK ZEIGLER CHEVROLET

New Chevy City Car to Spark a Driving Revolution

Developed to appeal to both city drivers and first-time buyers, the all-new 2013 Chevy Spark is set to make its U.S. debut on Nov. 16 at this year’s Los Angeles Auto Show. It marks Chevy’s first foray into the city-car segment in this country, and the brand plans on setting the pace with the Spark, thanks to the car’s unique focus on both fun and features.
While boasting nimble dimensions specifically tailored for the urban environment, the Spark also provides a big list of benefits, including the kind of connectivity and infotainment functionality that’s usually reserved for larger cars. This includes the only seven-inch touchscreen in its class capable of displaying smartphone-based navigation, media and contacts for hands-free calling, as well as the Chevy MyLink system, which is standard on the Spark 1LT and 2LT models. Chevy MyLink offers access via a paired smartphone to apps like Pandora and Stitcher Internet radio, and it can even play videos and display digital photo albums when the Spark is parked.
“This level of infotainment and connectivity was unheard of in this segment, until now,” said Chris Perry, vice president, global Chevrolet marketing and strategy. “We know Spark buyers do not want to give up personalization just because they drive a smaller car.”
And while the Spark is no doubt a tidy package, it offers more cargo and passenger room than rivals like the Fiat 500, Scion iQ and Smart Fortwo, along with:

• Standard air conditioning and power windows
• A motorcycle-inspired gauge cluster
• The segment’s only five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty
• GM’s OnStar safety and security system
• Ambient interior lighting
• A peppy 1.2-liter I4 engine capable of 85 hp
• 10 airbags
• A wide range of personalization and customization features
• Standard electronic traction control
• Heated seats
• Exterior finishes that range from Salsa, Jalapeno, Denim, Lemonade and Techno Pink to more traditional colors like Grey Area, Black Granite, Silver Ice and Summit White

In addition, the Spark showcases some surprisingly dramatic sheet metal, with its wheels pushed out to the corners for an aggressive stance. A key enabler of the Spark’s sporty looks? Chevy designers integrated its rear door handles into the C-pillar area to create an appearance that mimics that of a three-door “hot hatch”—while still allowing room inside for four occupants. The Spark’s integrated rear spoiler adds to the effect, and also improves aerodynamics for enhanced fuel efficiency.
Drivers who choose up-level Spark models can up the ante even further, with exterior details like matching rocker-panel moldings and chrome brightwork that accents the car’s beltline, liftgate handle, “poke-through” exhaust outlets and fog-lamp housings.
“Spark is for buyers who want much more than a ‘cute’ small car – they want a car that can be personalized, is dynamic and fashionable, and delivers a lot of value for the money,” added Perry. “Spark’s vibrant exterior and interior colors make a fashion statement, but it is also affordable, safe, maneuverable and very fuel-efficient.”
More information about the Spark, including pricing and EPA information, will be released closer to the car’s on-sale date in the summer of 2012.

Zeigler Chevrolet-Chevy Becomes Hot Brand In Korea

Chevrolet Becomes A Hot Brand In Korea

by Chevrolet in the News on August 31, 2011

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Chevrolet has been ramping up its marketing and sales efforts in many exciting new markets and the initiatives are already paying off. In Korea, sales of the brand are up 27 percent through the first six months of this year.
In addition to strong sales, many Korean consumers says they’ll likely consider buying a Chevy when its time to purchase a new vehicle.
“The market response to the 100-year-old Chevrolet brand in Korea has exceeded our expectations,” said Ankush Arora, GM Korea vice president of Sales, Marketing and Aftersales. “Chevrolet’s success has coincided with the aggressive launch of six models in a short period of time and the rollout of a series of innovative aftersales programs such as 357 Chevy Care.”
Although it’s well-established here in the U.S., Chevrolet has become one of the world’s fastest-growing brands. In Korea specifically, GM has remodeled its nationwide Chevrolet sales and service networks and formed a domestic dealer system to better position itself against its rivals. Demand is expected to rise even further with the arrival of exciting new models like the all-new Malibu sedan and the new Chevrolet Aveo.
“We have a solid plan for the ongoing introduction of new Chevrolet products in the domestic market,” said Arcamone. “The Malibu, Chevrolet’s new global midsize sedan, will soon be launched in Korea before any other market. This will enable us to achieve a more solid brand stance and bolster our sales.”

For More information about Zeigler Chevrolet in Schaumburg visit our site or call us at 847-882-2200

Chevy Cruze Boost Fuel Economy Zeigler Chevrolet Schaumburg

Chevy Boosts Cruze Fuel Economy For 2012

by CHEVROLET IN THE NEWS on AUGUST 2, 2011

Even though the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze is so popular it became the best-selling compact in America just months after its launch, and the Cruze Eco is so economical that it’s actually the most fuel-efficient gas-only vehicle in the country, Chevy wasn’t about to rest on its laurels. Instead, engineers worked diligently to make the 2012 Cruze even more fuel efficient—and succeeded.

Thanks to a revised axle ratio, the 2012 Cruze Eco with its standard 1.4-liter turbocharged Ecotec engine and available six-speed automatic transmission will be able to achieve up to 39 mpg highway, while the standard Cruze with the same powertrain will be able to reach 38 mpg highway.

Said Rick Scheidt, vice president of Chevrolet marketing: “Fuel economy is the top reason customers buy a compact and the Cruze’s greater efficiency for 2012 makes it all the more attractive.”

But that’s not all that’s new for the new model year. In addition to increasing the Cruze’s fuel economy, Chevy also is increasing its value by incorporating one of 2011’s most popular option packages into the car’s already long list of standard features. The new content includes:

• Bluetooth phone connectivity
• A USB port
• Steering-wheel-mounted audio controls
• Cruise control
• A leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob

And remember, this is on top of standard equipment like air conditioning, remote keyless entry, an AM/FM/CD/MP3 sound system with a three-month complimentary subscription to SiriusXM satellite radio, power windows, a fuel-saving rack-mounted electric power steering system and a segment-best 10 air bags.

“Chevrolet is committed to responding to what customers want and making it easier for them,” said Scheidt. “Adding these previously optional features streamlines the ordering process and answers the call of what our customers told us should be standard.”

The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will go on sale later this year.

For more information about the 2012 Chevy Cruze visit Zeigler Chevrolet in Schaumburg. See why Chevy customers are choosing Zeigler Chevrolet in Chicago land click here for more information.

Chevy Sonic To Showcase at Zeigler Chevrolet Schaumburg

All-New Chevy Sonic To Showcase MSRP Of $14,495

by CHEVROLET IN THE NEWS on AUGUST 5, 2011

Offering the most standard safety equipment and quickest acceleration in its class, along with the ability to get up to 40 mpg on the highway, the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is set to debut this fall with an MSRP of $14,495. Notably, the car will be manufactured at GM’s Orion Assembly Center in Orion Township, Mich., making it the only subcompact built in the U.S.

The new Sonic will be available in both sedan and five-door hatchback body styles, with three well-contented and affordably priced models.

Sonic LS (MSRP: $14,495, sedan; $15,395, hatchback), with standard features like:

• 1.8L Ecotec engine and five-speed manual transmission
• Class-exclusive standard 15-inch alloy wheels
• The most standard safety features in its segment, with 10 air bags, StabiliTrak electronic stability control with rollover sensing, traction control, anti-lock brakes, collapsible pedal system and power rear-door child-safety locks
• Standard six-month subscription to OnStar (including Turn-by-Turn navigation)
• Standard convenience features such as air conditioning, power door locks with remote keyless entry, and a tilt/telescoping steering wheel

Sonic LT (MSRP: $15,695, sedan; $16,495, hatchback), which includes all LS content and adds:

• Six-speaker premium sound system with CD player, XM Radio with three-month trial subscription
• Power windows with driver’s express up/down
• Power, heated side mirrors

Sonic LTZ (MSRP: $17,295, sedan: $17,995, hatchback) which includes all LT content and adds:

• A Connectivity package with a USB port, Bluetooth for select phones and music, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls
• Heated leatherette front seats
• Cruise control
• Fog lamps
• Standard 17-inch alloy wheels

The Sonic also will offer an advanced six-speed automatic transmission ($1,070), as well as an upgraded powertrain showcasing a six-speed manual transmission mated to a 1.4-liter turbocharged I4 engine in LT and LTZ models.

“Sonic shares the spirit of Chevrolets like the Corvette by delivering athletic and agile performance,” said Rick Scheidt, vice president of Chevrolet marketing. “Today’s customers have high expectations for small cars. Sonic comes with an unexpected level of standard equipment so that every customer will have comforts and amenities they desire.”

For more information about the Chevy Sonic visit Zeigler Chevrolet Schaumburg today. See why customers are choosing Zeigler Chevrolet Schaumburg just click here.

Zeigler Chevrolet Schaumburg Confirms Diesel Chevy Cruze

Chevrolet Confirms Diesel-Powered Cruze In 2013

by CHEVROLET IN THE NEWS on JULY 27, 2011

Diesels are often praised for their strong fuel economy, and they’re increasingly seen as an attractive alternative to gasoline- and hybrid-powered vehicles. However, few manufactures offer diesels here in the Unites States. Apparently, Chevrolet is listening and is eager to satisfy customers that want more diesel options.

For 2013, Chevrolet will add a diesel-powered variant to the Cruze lineup. Diesel Cruzes are already on sale in Europe, but they will soon become an option for car buyers in North America for the very first time.

Although the Cruze is already one of Chevy’s most fuel-efficient models, the addition of a diesel engine will give even more options to car buyers that are searching for high-mileage. The availability of a diesel model will compliment the42 mpg Cruze Eco, which is currently the most fuel-efficient gas-powered/non-hybrid vehicle in America.

In addition to offering strong fuel economy, another engine option will likely fuel the Cruze’s popularity. The compact has recorded a total of 24,896 sales in the United States in June, the fifth consecutive month sales have exceeded 20,000 units. As Chevrolet’s share of the compact-car segment grows, the automaker is eager to give customers even more to love. 

For more information about the Chevy Cruze or other Chevy models visit Zeigler Chevrolet Schaumburg or you can reach us buy telephone at 847-882-2200

2011 Chevy Cruze Zeigler Chevrolet Schaumburg IL

Chevy Cruze Loses Spare To Gain Fuel Efficiency

by CHEVROLET IN THE NEWS on JULY 8, 2011

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The all-new Chevrolet Cruze boasts outstanding fuel efficiency, with the ability to achieve up to 26 mpg city/36 mpg highway/30 mpg combined. But that didn’t satisfy Chevy engineers: To help deliver the most fuel-efficient gas-only compact in the U.S.—the Cruze Eco, which posts an EPA line of 28 mpg city/42 mpg highway/33 mpg combined—they made 42 unique changes to the Cruze, including swapping out a spare tire and jack for an onboard air-inflator system.

Not only does that help boost fuel efficiency by reducing the Cruze Eco’s curb weight by 26 lbs., but it also provides owners with a safer way to deal with flat tires.

“Getting rid of something as important as the spare tire wasn’t a decision we made lightly,” said Terry Connolly, GM director of Tire and Wheel Systems. “The universal implementation of tire pressure monitoring systems over the past five years has significantly reduced the likelihood that a flat tire will leave you stranded by the side of the road.”

In the Cruze Eco, the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) can detect a low-pressure situation early, before tire damage occurs. The driver is then able to plug the trunk-mounted inflator into the car’s 12-volt interior accesory socket and repressurize the tire within minutes. Even if an object like a nail or screw punctures one of the Cruze’s tires, the system can be used to inject a special sealant capable of plugging tread holes up to a quarter inch in diameter. The whole process takes just minutes, and with much less risk than a tire change. (However, note that per GM, reinflated tires should always be inspected at a repair facility as soon as possible after the car gets get back on the road.)

And if a tire is too severely damaged to be repaired, the Cruze Eco offers an even easier option: With GM’s OnStar telematics system, drivers can simply press the blue OnStar button on the Cruze Eco’s rearview mirror and request emergency roadside assistance.

The easy-to-use air inflator also makes it simple to ensure the Cruze Eco’s tires are inflated correctly for optimum fuel efficiency.

“The Cruze engineering team equipped the Eco with industry-leading low rolling-resistance tires. Ensuring that they stay properly inflated will help drivers get the full benefit of this lower fuel consumption,” added Connolly. “Tire pressure actually changes about one pound per square inch for every 10 degrees of ambient temperature change. Keeping your tires at the recommended pressure year round means drivers won’t have to fill the fuel tank quite as often.”

Visit Zeigler Chevrolet today and get your new Chevy Cruze!

http://www.zeiglerchevroletschaumburg.com

Zeigler Chevy Cruze Named to top 10 best interiors.

Chevy Cruze Named To “10 Best Interiors” List

by Chevrolet in the News on May 27, 2011

The all-new Chevrolet Cruze—in its 2LT RS trim—took home one of the industry’s most prestigious honors recently, when Chevy’s fuel-sipping compact earned a place on the annual Ward’s 10 Best Interiors list.
According to Ward’s editors:
“The Cruze illustrates clearly how the growing market for economy cars has convinced auto makers that cutting corners in the passenger compartment no longer works. Soft-touch surfaces, high-grade plastics, properly bolstered leather-appointed seats and great attention to noise reduction make the Cruze a wonderful value at $22,910.”
Of course, it’s an even better value at $16,525, which is the starting MSRP on the base Cruze. And even here, the Chevy offers plenty of high-quality materials and standard content, including 10 air bags—the most in the Cruze’s segment—along with a six-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 sound system, air conditioning, ambient lighting, power windows and door locks, a tilt/telescopic steering wheel, six months of GM’s OnStar system, and more.
The sporty RS appearance package that helped the Cruze garner its recognition from Ward’s then builds on that strong foundation with further interior design touches like an uplevel instrument cluster with chrome accent rings, opaque cluster bevels and ice-blue backlighting. Also in the mix is an aggresive RS body kit for the exterior, with model-specific fascias, rocker moldings, rear spoiler and foglamps.
The 2011 Ward’s 10 Best Interiors list was based on a long list of criteria, among them being a vehicle’s materials, ergonomics, safety, human-machine interface, comfort, fit and finish, overall value, and aesthetics. Judges reviewed 51 new or significantly refreshed vehicles for this year’s recognition, eventually whittling the number down to just eight winners.
To get the inside story on the whole 2011 Chevrolet Cruze family—including the 42-mpg Cruze Eco—visit your local dealership today.

 

Chevy Volt Helps Feathered Friends! Zeigler Chevrolet Scahumburg

Chevy Volt Helps Feathered Friends Feel Right At Home

by Chevrolet in the News on May 2, 2011

The advanced lithium-ion batteries in the Chevrolet Volt are a key enabler of the car’s environmentally friendly mission, and not just because they can help the drivers achieve an emissions-free, all-electric driving range of up to 50 miles. Showcasing GM’s long-time dedication to recycling, 10 environmental and facilities engineers from General Motors, along with a group of local kids from Detroit’s Lasky Recreation Center, recently teamed up to hatch a new way to get the most from the Volt’s batteries: Converting scrap battery covers—which would have otherwise ended up getting tossed out with the trash—into nesting boxes for the wood ducks, screech owls and other bird life living at GM facilities across the country.
“This is a great example of finding an alternative use for something we receive in our assembly plant every day,” said John Bradburn, manager of waste-reduction efforts for GM. “Our employees think about waste differently than most … they view it as a challenge to keep items in their use phase.”
And this isn’t the first time the Volt has extended its ecologically sound approach to the auto industry beyond the road. Earlier this year, GM announced it had developed a way to take the plastic boom material being used to soak up oil from the Gulf of Mexico and then recycle it into parts found under the Volt’s hood. This effort is expected to keep more than 100,000 pounds of plastic waste out of landfills this year alone.
“This was purely a matter of helping out,” added John Bradburn. “If sent to a landfill, these materials would have taken hundreds of years to begin to break down, and we didn’t want to see the spill further impact the environment. We knew we could identify a beneficial reuse of this material given our experience.”

Chevy Cruze and Fuel Efficiency Zeigler Chevrolet Schaumburg

Chevy’s I4 Engines Are Good4 Fuel Efficiency

by Chevrolet in the News on April 19, 2011

The numbers don’t lie: In 2007, Chevrolet models with inline four-cylinder (I4) engines represented just 23 percent of the company’s sales. Through the start of 2011, that number had doubled, with 46 percent of Chevy buyers choosing a model with a high-efficiency I4 powerplant. And this trend is sure to continue if fuel prices continue to rise—but Chevrolet is well prepared for that eventuality said Rick Scheidt, the brand’s U.S. vice president.
According to Scheidt, “Chevrolet’s investment in advanced engine technology is reflected in the increased popularity of our four-cylinder models. These technologies offer the performance and refinement drivers expect from Chevy in smaller engines that deliver the fuel efficiency they want.”
Chevrolet advances are many, but three in particular stand out:

• Turbocharging—The all-new Chevrolet Cruze Eco leverages a turbocharged 1.4-liter I4 engine to deliver nearly the same power as the 2009 Chevy Cobalt, but with a smaller powerplant that gets 5 more highway mpg. The bottom line for the Cruze Eco: Best-in-class EPA ratings of 28 mpg city/42 mpg highway/33 mpg combined. In addition, the same engine will be available in the brand-new Chevrolet Sonic, slated to launch in the U.S. in the fall.

• Variable valve timing—Precisely adjusting the operation of engine valves to respond to driver demands, variable valve timing is used in four-cylinder Chevrolet engines like the 2.4-liter Ecotec mill that powers the Chey Malibu. The result is responsive power—170 hp and 160 lb.-ft. of torque—to go with an EPA line of up to 22 mpg city/33 mpg highway/26 mpg combined. This technology also is found on a dozen Chevrolet models, including the Camaro, Volt, Cruze and Silverado.

• Direct injection—The direct-injection systems used in vehicles like the Chevrolet Equinox spray fuel directly into the cylinder, delivering it more precisely than a traditional fuel-injection system. This boosts performance, reduces emissions and improves fuel efficiency. In fact, the I4 engine in the Equinox makes a notable 182 hp and 172 lb.-ft. of torque, yet still achieves a better EPA highway rating than the Ford Escape Hybrid. The Equinox attains marks of 22 mpg city/32 mpg highway/26 mpg combined.

“The shift in consumer preference evidenced by Chevrolet’s lineup is a great example of how much four-cylinder engines have improved across the industry,” said Bill Visnic, analyst and senior editor for Edmunds AutoObserver.com. “Four cylinders used to be something to settle for. But advances in engine design and technology have made four-cylinder engines vastly more refined, and power output has increased to where V6 engines were just a few years ago.”

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Facebook and Onstar merge Together. Zeigler Chevrolet..

GM Is Shoving Facebook and Voice Texting Into Your OnStar-Equipped Car

GM's OnStar system has just taken a leap into connectivity, adding audio Facebook updates, voice texting, and apps that control your car from your phone. Suddenly, your most expensive gadget might be your car.

There are a few components to GM's announcement today, including next-generation hardware and an overhauled IT infastructure. But what really stand out are the inclusion of Audio Facebook and text-to-toice, along with a brand of phone apps that will be able to start your car and work your horn, lights and door locks remotely.
Here's how the former works: If you've got an incoming SMS and your phone is connected to OnStar via Bluetooth, the car will read that text back to you. Simple enough! You can also send a voice-activated response, but you'll only be able to choose from one of several pre-programmed responses. For example, say "I'm driving" and your car will send back a text about how you're busy driving at the moment. You can't dictate a text back yet, and it's possible you may never be able to because of safety concerns. Likewise, Audio Facebook can read back your news feed to you and will let you update your status with an audio recording. Texting is in beta, Audio Facebook in early tests.
The family of phone apps, known as MyLink, will hit Android first, with iPhone not far behind. It'll hit Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick and GMC, and has already been shown off in the Chevy Volt.

One of the more surprising aspects of today's announcements is that GM is opening up their OnStar voice API to developers. The idea of open-source apps for a car might be a little intimidating—especially given worries about a system like OnStar's potential vulnerabilities—but nothing would ever reach your vehicle without being strictly vetted by GM.

It does speak to the larger question, though: is your car a gadget? And should it be? As more and more "infotainment" populates our cabins, it causes more and more distraction. Which in turn causes more accidents. It's clearly a line that GM is extremely cautious about, ensuring OnStar avoids features—like text dictation—that are potentially dangerously distracting. Let's hope they stay that way.

OnStar Relaunches Its Brand with Focus on
"Responsible Connectivity"
• New telematics computing platform includes social media/voice-texting capability and potential for open development
• New OnStar MyLink sub-brand for smart phone applications for Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick and GMC
• Ninth-generation hardware improves navigation and user features
• New services extend OnStar's safety leadership
• All new marketing campaign and business strategy
(New York) Sept. 15, 2010 - OnStar launched new services, capabilities and technology for its nearly six million subscribers as part of a top-to-bottom realignment of the company's long-term strategy built around ‘responsible connectivity'.
OnStar plans to pilot major innovations that significantly increase drivers' in-car connection to the world, while extending its safety leadership in the automotive industry.
"These initiatives are all about OnStar's role in keeping drivers and passengers connected and safe," said OnStar President Chris Preuss. "Building on the rock-solid foundation of OnStar's safety and security platform, we were given a clear directive to develop OnStar as one of the chief pillars in defining General Motors' business going forward."
"With the extremely high awareness and respect for the OnStar brand, we've created a long-term vision that includes new in-vehicle hardware, an all-new IT infrastructure and a host of new partnerships and services that provide the basis for growth," Preuss continued.
Simultaneous events were held in New York, Austin, San Francisco and Miami to relaunch the OnStar brand.
New Technology Testing
OnStar subscribers and technology insiders got a first look at OnStar's new technologies that are enabled through the ninth generation hardware:
• Audio Facebook Updates: OnStar showcased in-car social media interactions that are being tested. If implemented, Audio Facebook Updates would allow OnStar subscribers to verbally update their Facebook status message through audio recordings and/or listen to their most recent news feed messages through the OnStar Virtual Advisor service.
• Voice Texting: OnStar revealed beta tests for voice-based SMS (short message service). This feature would enable customers to have their text messages read to them using Bluetooth.
The Bluetooth technology allows users to connect their mobile device to their vehicle and receive automated text messages. With one button press, on the steering wheel, users can reply to a text by verbally selecting a preset response.
OnStar MyLink
OnStar announced the OnStar MyLink sub-brand for mobile phone applications. Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac mobile apps powered by OnStar will allow owners to remotely activate all functions available on a traditional key fob, including remote start, horn and lights and door locks and unlocks securely from select smartphones. Versions have already been shown for the Chevrolet Volt electric vehicle with extended range capability and the all-new Chevrolet Cruze compact sedan.
Redesigned IT Infrastructure
OnStar revealed its Advanced Telematics Operations Management System (ATOMS) computing platform, one of the most powerful and comprehensive machine-to-machine telematics systems in the world. ATOMS allows for advanced geo-boxing and voice-texting engines, including Audio Facebook Updates. OnStar services are rigorously tested to ensure they are consistent with GM's safe driver principles and help reduce distracted driving.
OnStar Developers Challenge
The OnStar Developers Challenge invites students from leading universities, to design the next voice-based technology that will keep drivers safely connected when they are on the road. The audio-focused Application Programming Interface (API) competition for select universities will allow Engineering, Interaction Design and Human Computer Interaction students to submit original and compelling voice-enabled applications. The OnStar Developers Challenge website, www.onstardeveloperchallenge.com, launched today.
9th Generation of Hardware
OnStar also unveiled its ninth generation hardware that improves the user experience with new natural voice recognition, Bluetooth phonebook, improved navigation, the ability to work with advanced traffic management and severe weather alert services, also known as geo-boxed notification services.
Furthering Its Safety Leadership
Additionally OnStar continues to enhance its core safety focus:
• In coordination with the GM Foundation, OnStar is providing a grant of $500,000 to the International Center for Automotive Medicine (http://automotivemedicine.org) at the University of Michigan Health System for research related to the prediction of injury severity level after a crash. This grant, along with three years of actual OnStar crash data, will enable OnStar and the University of Michigan Health System to link crash data to actual physical injuries sustained in vehicle crashes. The revolutionary research, conducted over approximately 18 months, will look at 1,000 incidents and ultimately will allow OnStar to predict not only the severity of a crash, but assist emergency care providers by providing the probability of certain types of injuries sustained by crash victims.
OnStar, in coordination with the GM Foundation, also is providing $100,000 to the CDC Foundation to allow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to convene an expert panel to develop a multi-site study design in various states. The study's purpose will be to assess the correlation of real-time injury predictions sent directly from crash data with actual injury severity. The study will set the stage for broad collaborative research directed at optimizing the potential for automatic crash notification technologies to save lives.
• OnStar unveiled First Assist, an enhancement of its existing emergency services. The First Assist service allows certified Emergency Advisors to obtain critical information and provide important instructions to subscribers until first responders arrive. Emergency situations can include the aftermath of a car crash or the birth of a child. After determining the nature of the situation, Advisors can provide rapid guidance, which may result in potentially lifesaving actions. OnStar Advisors providing this service are specially trained and certified by the National Academies of Emergency Dispatch™ (NAED) using the Medical Priority Dispatch System (MPDS) protocol. This service, available at no additional cost to active OnStar subscribers, will complement the efforts of public safety professionals.
A New Marketing Campaign
OnStar revealed a new marketing campaign that aligns with its new business strategy.
"The new campaign retains all of the core strengths of safety and security that OnStar is known for, but also adds the idea of ‘powerfully simple connectivity,'" said OnStar Chief Marketing Officer Sam Mancuso. " The creative showcases how we provide our customers connectivity to all the things that matter most to them, like family, friends, social media tools and our OnStar Advisors."
The campaign, created by OnStar's ad agency Campbell-Ewald, will focus on the theme "Live On"– Safely connecting you in ways you never thought possible." Print, broadcast and online executions of the campaign launch Monday, Sept. 20.
OnStar's new business strategy is built around a highly successful subscription model and leaves open the possibility for expansion beyond the automotive industry.
"One aspect of our business that will never change is our live Advisors who are just a simple button press away," said Preuss. "They are what set us apart, and they'll continue to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week."
For more information on OnStar's innovation, the company's recently launched marketing campaign and photos from the events, visit: http://media.gm.com/product/public/us/en/onstar/news.html