Latest 3D technology brings emergency locations to life.
Accurate location is the single most important factor in managing automotive emergency services, and OnStar will soon provide unparalleled location information to emergency responders by enhancing GPS location with 3D aerial imagery in Microsoft Virtual Earth. Microsoft Virtual Earth is an application that visualizes geographic and location-based information by combining Microsoft's 3D maps with location data, which in this case will come from the subscriber's OnStar system. This technology will enhance OnStar's comprehensive suite of Emergency services, including Automatic Crash Response and Emergency button presses.
"When lives are on the line, every second counts and this new technology will give our Advisors another tool to speed the time it takes first responders to find subscribers in an emergency," said
The live OnStar advisor plays a pivotal role in directing timely emergency response to subscribers. OnStar subscribers now have additional peace of mind, knowing that they benefit from the most advanced emergency location technology for rapid emergency response, no matter how remote the location.
"Microsoft is helping automakers, suppliers and customers focus on long-term innovation to reshape the plant floor, in-car and dealership experience," said
OnStar's dedication to innovation for emergency services has continued to evolve since it first introduced Air Bag Notification in 1996. For example, today's Automatic Crash Response uses built-in vehicle sensors to connect an advisor into a vehicle after a crash, regardless of air bag deployment. The sensors also provide real-time data about the type and severity of the crash to OnStar, and the advisor can relay the data including the number, direction and severity of impacts, air bag deployment status, and rollover information to emergency responders so they can be better prepared to help when they arrive at the scene.
With more than 13 years of experience, OnStar has provided assistance in more than 100,000 Automatic Crash Responses and received more than 1 million emergency calls for help.
About OnStar
OnStar, a wholly-owned subsidiary of General Motors, is the leading provider of in-vehicle safety, security and communication services. OnStar is available on more than 50 MY 2009 GM models. OnStar is standard for one year on nearly all new GM retail vehicles in
About GM
General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), one of the world's largest automakers, was founded in 1908, and today manufactures cars and trucks in 34 countries. With its global headquarters in
About Microsoft in Automotive
Microsoft has been working with the automotive industry for more than a decade. The Microsoft Automotive and Industrial Equipment vertical works with industry partners to develop solutions based on Microsoft technologies that enable original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), suppliers and customers to improve efficiency, effectiveness and knowledge across the business. Business applications, Microsoft .NET Framework-based technologies and enterprise platform support help manufacturers accelerate time to market, collaborate globally with engineers, reduce costs by leveraging the power of the Internet, and increase visibility into their production and supply chain processes. More information can be found at http://www.microsoft.com/automotive.
SOURCE General Motors Corporation