Telematics is a hot topic in the industry today with articles appearing in various trade publications. ASA recently released its 20-page comprehensive report on telematics and how it will affect the independent automotive service and repair segment (see page 12 for more information on the topic). Telematics has been applied specifically to the use of global positioning system technology, such as OnStar, integrated with computers and mobile communications technology in automotive navigation systems.

OnStar, a wholly owned subsidiary of GM, is the leading provider of in-vehicle safety, security and communication services. OnStar became standard on nearly all GM retail vehicles in the United States and Canada by the end of last year.

To get an idea of how this technology is being used today, here are some average monthly OnStar responses through June 2007, according to the GM Web site:

            • 400 stolen vehicle locations
            • 1,000 airbag notifications
            • 380 advanced automatic crash notifications
            • 6,000 Good Samaritan calls
            • 11,400 emergency calls
            • 47,000 remote vehicle diagnostics
            • 27,000 roadside assistance calls
            • 50,000 remote door unlocks
            • 353,000 routing calls
            • 14,000,000 OnStar hands-free calls

To download a free copy of ASA’s 20-page telematics report, please visit www.ASAshop.org.

Stat Corner is written by Karin White, ASA's research and project specialist. She can be reached at (800) 272-7467, ext. 252, or by e-mail at karinw@asashop.org.