According to AutoWeek, GM is going to launch a new OnStar system that features MapQuest driving directions. “The OnStar operative makes it look fairly easy: MapQuest a destination, and, with a few clicks, it’s sent to your car. No problem. It’s called eNav, and it’s another way the directionally challenged have of arriving at the right place on time.”
GM continues to work hard to keep OnStar competitive with other navigation aids according to Auto Week: “General Motors showed off the technology and another new OnStar feature, Destination Download, in late March and is formally rolling them out on Wednesday, April 2. They’re part of GM’s strategy to make OnStar more competitive against cheaper portable navigation systems and emerging technologies from other automakers.”
This technology could prove useful in unfamiliar places, such as when you are on vacation in Texas. However, it will be two years before the new navigation system is available on all of the automaker’s vehicles. Currently, the feature will be available on 22 different 2009 GM vehicles, for a total of 325,000 automobiles.
If your plans include a trip to Dallas for fun or business, DFW Elite Auto Rental, the premier luxury car rental company in DFW, can make sure you never get lost. Most of the exotic and performance cars in our collection have built in navigation,” said Tom Warren, GM of the car rental company.
“The navigation system in our new Bentley GTC is exceptionally easy to use, although I suspect the on-board navigation system isn’t the primary reason we have so may requests to rent a Bentley GTC in Dallas. More likely people rent it because it’s arguably the best 4-door convertible in the world and a gorgeous car,” said Mr. Warren.
With several amazing automobiles to choose from, auto enthusiasts shouldn’t have any trouble finding things to do in Texas. Another great vacation activity is participating in a dream tour from DFW Drive Your Dream. Dream tour participants drive five exotic cars back-to-back on a pre-selected scenic route over some of DFW’s best driving roads.
“I couldn’t stop smiling,” said a recent DFW Drive Your Dream Tour participant. “It’s an amazing experience to drive a Lamborghini Gallardo, 600 HP Dodge Viper, and Ferrari F430 all in a single day,” said the local car buff. “The driving instruction, staff, and lunch were excellent, but there is no substitute for experiencing the magic of driving five exotic cars for yourself,” said the Dallas web design company owner. Learn more about these fantasy car driving tours at www.dfwdriveyourdream.com
The Detroit Free Press has further details about the addition of MapQuest driving directions to OnStar-equipped GM vehicles: “In addition, the in-car navigation and safety system also announced a new option that will allow OnStar customers with screen-based navigation systems to download their directions straight to the map screen if they choose. Until now, OnStar turn-by-turn directions were available only as written directions in the instrument panel or on the radio display. They are also broadcast over speakers in the vehicle. Both new offerings are in response to driver requests and will not add to the cost of an OnStar subscription.”
While this news may excite technology enthusiasts, it may not be what GM needs to reclaim its lost share of the automobile market. Although GM was the auto sales leader for the last 75 years, Toyota is poised to take over the position of number one.
Kate Miller-Wilson is a freelance writer living in the Twin Cities. Visit her website or email her for information about her freelance writing services. She is a regular contributor to the exotic car rental blog.
