Audiovox Electronics said its Car Connection advanced GPS tracking system using Sprint wireless service is finally in stores nationwide although its retail roll out will continue through Q4.
The Car Connection system can let parents know if their teen is on the cellphone while driving, or if he’s driving too fast. It tracks the car and tells you why your check engine light went on.
Through an optional ZoomSafer feature, you can manage the driver’s cellphone and eliminate texting while driving.
It also gives you driving scores–the kind that auto insurance companies use for usage-based-insurance discounts so you can know how you’ll do before signing up. Audiovox plans to announce partnerships with auto insurance companies for such usage based programs in the coming year, it said.
President of Audiovox Electronics Tom Malone said, “Car Connection is one of the most exciting products we have brought to market in some time. As our tag line says, it will allow consumers to Monitor, Manage and Maintain their vehicles health; the habits of the drivers…knowing how fast or aggressively your teenage son is driving or whether your daughter is using her cell phone while driving or where your aging parent has wandered off to with the family car.”
The Car Connection module plugs in to the OBDII port in all cars newer than 1996. It requires no installation at has a retail price of $169.99.
Retail partners for the device include Sears and Pep Boys.
The Car Connection will also provide the option for remote-start-from-a-phone so it may be sold as a step up feature to remote start.
It requires a choice of service plans: 1) $9.95 per month + $19.95 one- time activation fee or 2) $89.95 per year + $19.95 one device activation fee.
Source: Audiovox Electronics
