Published September 2003

OnStar a star in sci-fi films, everyday driving

By John Wolcott
SCBJ Editor

OnStar started out as sci-fi technology in 1996. Today it still is sci-fi technology, but it also has a practical side as well as its gee-whiz image.

On the gee-whiz side, OnStar was added to the Batmobile’s accessory list in a recent film, and the OnStar system played a role as a friendly, high-tech assistant in Arnold Schwarzenegger’s science-fiction action movie “The 6th Day.”

But off-screen, OnStar is a real-life communication technology product that is becoming better known each day. As science advances, OnStar continues to add new capabilities and services.

Basically, the General Motors vehicle-communications system is a blending of a Global Positioning System (GPS) that provides a navigation system linked to orbiting satellites, on-board vehicle electronics and wireless technology — all designed to improve vehicle and personal safety.

Consider just a few of OnStar’s features, available on such vehicles as the Chevrolet TrailBlazer, GMC Envoy, Cadillac and many other GM vehicles.

• When a vehicle crashes, OnStar provides automatic crash notification to a 911 emergency response center when an airbag deploys in the vehicle, and reports the location of the vehicle even if the occupants are unconscious.
• The OnStar call center can communicate with people involved in accidents to help determine the extent of injuries.
• With the push of a button, drivers can also contact the OnStar center for help with directions when they’re lost or need assistance.
• Some vehicle systems can send and receive calls with a built-in, hands-free wireless telephone.
• A new feature provides an in-vehicle communication system that reads e-mail and news information to drivers.
• One of the latest services is OnStar’s MED-NET, which stores a driver’s pertinent medical or disability information on-board, then provides it to medical personnel in emergency situations.

Now that the system has been proven for several years, more and more high-tech uses for OnStar are being developed each year.

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