GM develops break-down prediction technology

General Motors has developed a new connected vehicle technology it says will help predict breakdowns before they occur.

The as yet unnamed system utilises GM's 4G-based OnStar connectivity platform to stream real-time data from suitably equipped vehicles to GM's OnStar servers. The information is then analysed to determine if any components might require inspection and, if a problem is detected, owners are notified via the OnStar RemoteLink smartphone app, an in-vehicle alert or even email and text message, depending on owner preference.

The technology was revealed at in Las Vegas at the 2015 Consumer Electronics Show or CES, an event usually associated with flat screen TVs and smart watches.

GM says it will offer the diagnostic service on selected Chevrolet vehicles, including the 2016 Corvette, Equinox, Silverado, Silverado HD, Suburban and Tahoe. Initially the technology will focus on electrical components including the starter motor, fuel pump, battery and alternator, but will eventually cover other components as vehicle model cycles are renewed.

"Using our innovative OnStar 4G LTE connectivity platform, we can actively monitor vehicle component health and notify our customers if covered vehicle components need attention," explained GM's senior vice president of Global Connected Customer Experience, Alicia Boler-Davis.
"Nobody else in the industry is offering this."

Boler-Davis says the prognostic technology is industry-leading and that in many cases it is capable of detecting an issue before vehicle performance is impacted.

"This is a new chapter in our pursuit to provide customers with convenience and the best overall service in the industry," she concluded.

Current vehicle's equipped with OnStar connectivity are already capable of monitoring tyre pressure, oil life and "other key data points" says Chevy.

The feedback is supplied to the customer via a smartphone app or a monthly diagnostic email, however this revised version improves functionality significantly. It not likely to be offered on Australian vehicles anytime soon.