Last week it was widely reported that General Motors was in talks with Google to develop a Microsoft/Ford SYNC competitor. While those reports have not (yet) proved to be true, General Motors has officially announced something new involving Google.
GM introduced a Chevrolet Volt application at the 2010 Consumer Electronics Show in January that provided a range of data about the Volt and its battery. But now it seems that this new mobile app will also feature navigation capabilities via Google and more specifically Google Maps.
With this new functionality, Chevy Volt owners using an Android handset will be able pinpoint their vehicle on a Google Map and use the app to search for local destinations by voice. Drivers will also be able to send their destination to the Volt’s OnStar system to get Turn-By-Turn directions as well.
“While OnStar will never lose sight of our core focus on safety and security, this relationship is an example of how we’re evolving our leadership position in connected vehicle technology,” said Chris Preuss, OnStar president. “What we’re talking about today is only the beginning.”
Although this new navigation functionality will not be available on the Volt app when it launches, it will be available on the 2.0 version.
Among the features that will be available on the new Volt app will be the ability to check battery charge status, set-up text or email notification for charge reminders, and even remotely start the Volt.
GM and OnStar will debut and demonstrate new Google Maps functionality of the Chevrolet Volt mobile app for Android at the Google I/O conference May 19-20 in San Francisco, CA.
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