DETROIT – Will Power says that passenger car drivers with the diagnostic technology offered through Verizon Vehicle is like having a pit crew at the ready.
The reigning Verizon IndyCar Series champion joined Verizon Telematics president Erik Goldman in introducing the next generation of vehicle information technology and service at the North American International Auto Show.
Verizon Vehicle aims to modernize roadside assistance programs that are subscribed to by more than 80 million Americans while enhancing driver safety and convenience.
With Verizon Vehicle, expected to make its commercial debut in the second quarter of 2015, drivers will have diagnostic technology at their fingertips, live assistance at the press of a button and pinpoint roadside assistance with GPS accuracy. The service also connects drivers with live A.S.E. certified mechanics to diagnose potential problems and offer solutions. The Verizon Vehicle device can be self-installed and includes a Bluetooth-enabled speaker to be attached to the visor. A smartphone application can also work with the system.
“It’s similar to what we have on the race car. You’re engineers are getting a lot of telemetry back to the stand so they can understand everything that is going on with the engine and the car,” Power said. “They car monitor all that without me having to worry about it. To have that in your road car is a great idea. You just plug this device in and you have a service that is monitoring everything that is going on.”
Verizon Vehicle, powered by the Verizon Wireless network, will launch as a subscription-based service available to drivers regardless of the wireless service provider they use. Members also receive discounts on hotels and auto services.
“It’s a game-changing solution available to everybody and virtually every vehicle," said Goldman, who noted that the service is compatible with vehicles dating to 1996. “As one of the largest communications companies in the world, we are dedicated to providing consumers with innovative technology solutions that connect people, solve challenges and inspire change.
“Verizon Vehicle is a unique and truly holistic aftermarket solution available to over 200 million vehicles on the road today. It affords millions of drivers the power of knowing when things aren’t working well, potentially before a breakdown occurs — fostering a safer, smarter and more economical way to drive and maintain a vehicle.”
Count Power as a future subscriber.
“It really gives you peace of mind,” said Power, who begins defense of his title March 8 in Brasilia, Brazil, in the No. 1 Verizon Team Penske car.
Power toured the display floor, frequently slowing to check out the new releases and concept cars. He also met with the media to promote the Chevrolet Dual in Detroit Presented by Quicken Loans -- the lone doubleheader race weekend on the Verizon IndyCar Series schedule this season -- and toured the headquarters of Shinola. The North American International Auto Show show opens to the public Jan. 17.