VOXX Electronics is now shipping what is essentially free remote start from a phone over Bluetooth.
It’s new Carlink BT is a Bluetooth module that allows a remote starter to work with a smartphone within 50 to 80 feet from the car without service charges. It turns your phone into a spare key for the car.
The Bluetooth module is free with VOXX’s Prestige PROCORE remote starters, although users must download an app for $7.99.
VOXX will also offer a standalone version of the Bluetooth module that can be used with remote starters from other brands for a one-time charge (it was about $70 as announced in January).
VOXX considers Bluetooth a stepping stone to full cellular-based remote start systems with unlimited range so you can start your car remotely from almost anywhere. It gives customers an incentive to start using their smartphone as a transmitter and car key, said VOXX. Then they may want extended range, and upgrade to a full cellular version at $99/year.
