OnStar mobile app puts the Chevy Volt in your pocket
Updated: CNET video added.The Chevrolet Volt hasn't even hit the sales floor yet and there's already an app for that. On Tuesday evening, Chevrolet and its OnStar telematics system announced working smartphone apps for the Motorola Droid, Apple iPhone, and BlackBerry Storm that will allow Volt owners to connect to their vehicles wirelessly to access remote features via smartphone.This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.PlayThe Chevrolet Volt OnStar smartphone app will let users know if the Volt is plugged in or not and whether it's charging on 120V or 240V. Users can also schedule charging times to get the lowest off-peak rates and "Charge Now" if they need a quick boost. Users can even remotely start the Volt to preheat or cool the cabin while plugged in to preserve a bit of EV range. Of course, battery charge level and gasoline and electric ranges will also be accessible using the app, as well as displays of miles per gallon, electric-only miles, and odometer readings for the last trip and the lifetime of the vehicle.The app can also send text or e-mail notifications for charge reminders, interruptions, and full charge, as well as give users access to traditional OnStar features such as as door lock, unlock, and remote horn and lights.We find it a bit odd the Chevrolet specifically names the three specific phones that it does, which makes us wonder if the app will work with other Android and BlackBerry phones or even the iPod Touch. If not, users with unsupported Internet-capable phones will still be able to view and manage the Volt's systems using their mobile Web browsers, so hopefully Chevrolet isn't leaving anyone out in the cold.Demonstration applications for the Motorola Droid and BlackBerry Storm are be available at OnStarMobileDemo.com. The demonstration application for the Apple iPhone will be available on the iTunes store on January 6. The real deal OnStar Mobile Application will be available for Volt owners at launch. Production for the Volt is scheduled to begin in late 2010. Pricing has not been announced.
