Toyota to roll out new software that sends service reminders to customers

Interesting idea, should cut down on mail etc....
Toyota is getting set to roll lout a software program to send service-reminders to customers tailored according to their vehicles mileage and service history. In short, Toyota owners will no longer receive coupons and deals for oil changes 3 weeks after receiving an oil change.

Though developed and overseen by Toyota, the software will be fully controlled by dealers, who will control the frequency and types of promotions sent to customers.

One hurdle in the software is communication parameters for consumers who did not buy their vehicle from the dealership closest o their home. There may be a bit of an issue with duplicate mailing, or ‘conquest’ mailing, but Toyota is looking to minimize that.

- By: Stephen Calogera

Source;
http://www.egmcartech.com/2011/01/05/toyota-to-roll-out-new-software-that-sends-service-reminders-to-customers/

Toyota to roll out new software that sends service reminders to customers

Interesting idea, should cut down on mail etc....
Toyota is getting set to roll lout a software program to send service-reminders to customers tailored according to their vehicles mileage and service history. In short, Toyota owners will no longer receive coupons and deals for oil changes 3 weeks after receiving an oil change.

Though developed and overseen by Toyota, the software will be fully controlled by dealers, who will control the frequency and types of promotions sent to customers.

One hurdle in the software is communication parameters for consumers who did not buy their vehicle from the dealership closest o their home. There may be a bit of an issue with duplicate mailing, or ‘conquest’ mailing, but Toyota is looking to minimize that.

- By: Stephen Calogera

Source;
http://www.egmcartech.com/2011/01/05/toyota-to-roll-out-new-software-that-sends-service-reminders-to-customers/

OnStar to provide service for non-GM cars, unveils aftermarket product at Consumer Electronics Show

Las Vegas - Today OnStar announced it would make its services available in non-GM cars through an aftermarket rear view mirror replacement. The mirror frame features the blue OnStar button, along with buttons for emergency response and hands-free phone calling, similar to its appearance in GM vehicles.

The bulky replacement mirror combines a GPS chip, accelerometer, Bluetooth hardware, and a cellular chip to connect with OnStar services and operators. OnStar uses Verizon for its voice and data connections.

The mirror uses its accelerometer to determine if a crash has occurred, which triggers OnStar's emergency collision response. An OnStar operator will attempt to contact the vehicle occupants and call emergency responders as needed, using the GPS signal to determine the car's location.

The GPS also enables OnStar's stolen vehicle location service.

Similar to OnStar in GM vehicles, the aftermarket mirror provides turn-by-turn navigation from an OnStar operator. The device pairs with Bluetooth cell phones allowing hands-free calling.

Users can also get a prepaid calling plan through OnStar, and use the mirror as a phone.

This aftermarket OnStar implementation suffers from a few limitations. It does not connect to a car's OBD-II port, so cannot offer remote door unlock or engine start. OnStar is also not offering an associated smartphone app, as it is with the Chevrolet Volt.

OnStar has tested the mirror in a wide variety of non-GM vehicles, and says it is compatible with cars from Ford, Lincoln, Toyota, Nissan, Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler, and Honda.

The mirror is expected to be available in early Summer at Best Buy. OnStar recommends a professional installation. The unit will cost $299, with the cheapest service plan at $18.95 per month.

Source;
http://ces.cnet.com/8301-32254_1-20027278-283.html