Date: Sat, 02 Sep 2000 06:55:27 GMT From: larrybowdennopsamram.infoave.net (Lbb) Subject: Re: Advice for SAAB newcomer on 9-5 SE
On Mon, 14 Aug 2000 18:40:31 -0400, Rob Levandowski <roblnopsamhiz.com> wrote: But my real concern is that i must use a GM as the carrier. That someone has permanent and complete access to my location at all times, and access to my car's electronics, AT ALL TIMES. HMM? Big brother is not the gov't, but the automaker.? > >If you call the concierge from a different telephone, and provide a >passcode, they can trigger your car's locks remotely, in case you lock >your keys inside. > >If your airbag deploys, the system automatically places an emergency >call to the concierge, indicating airbag discharge, and opens the >speakerphone mike. The concierge will say something like "Mr. >So-and-so, I show that your airbag just went off, are you okay?" If you >don't answer, or answer "no," they'll send help to your location >immediately based on the GPS coordinates. Thus, if you get knocked >unconscious in a crash, the car will call for help without you. > >If you pay a higher fee, the concierge will do concierge-like things for >you: make dinner or hotel reservations, send flowers, etc. > >For my money, the only real drawbacks to the system are that (a) it must >be factory installed -- it can't be retrofit and (b) you have to use an >analog cell phone. Considering the prevalance of digital cell phones in >the U.S. right now, that's a deal-breaker for many people, because most >of the time you'll use the system in cellphone mode, and you'll want the >digital clarity. However, from a safety standpoint, analog makes sense. >In the U.S., most fringe areas have analog service only, and digital >cell phones don't go above 0.5 watt. That 3 watt analog phone will look >really good if you whack a tree in rural Vermont... > >-- >Rob Levandowski >roblnopsamhiz.com
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