GM lauds tech features in outreach push for OnStar
DETROIT: GM's communications team is increasing outreach to tech audiences after CEO Rick Wagoner unveiled potential updates to its OnStar feature at the Consumer Electronics Show.
Plans are underway to develop the technology so the emergency location service will be available to subscribers on their cell phones. OnStar is hoping the new features will differentiate GM at this week's North American International Auto Show in Detroit, which is the kick-off event to the auto show season.
During the January 8 keynote speech at CES, Wagoner also promoted OnStar's current features, such as its stolen vehicle slowdown function, a tool that allows police to cut power to a stolen vehicle and prevent high-speed chases.
Outreach will include business, consumer/lifestyle, tech, and the automotive press. The carmaker is also forging stronger relationships with bloggers, especially parenting blogs that focus on auto-safety issues and tech blogs.
The messaging during the shows will be customized to match the purchasing trends in each show's regional market, but the broader theme will emphasize the technology as a differentiator for GM vehicles, said Jocelyn Allen, VP of public affairs and corporate communications at OnStar.
Additionally, the company will use announcement opportunities to highlight the breadth of its services and to clear up misunderstandings.
"Trying to deliver a complete picture for people is probably goal number one for us," added Allen.
OnStar is a wholly owned subsidiary of GM that provides subscription-based telematic services in GM's vehicles.
