Thank you. I believe MaybeFutureBuyer has also reached out to GM about the lack of Car Play. The more voices the more pressure!
Letter to Mary Barra
I've been thinking about the removal of the projection subsystem in Android Automotive for GM's upcoming EVs and sent the following to [email protected] on Sunday. What I didn't want to do was send a "whine" letter, but rather one that made product improvement suggestions that would benefit GM's bottom line while giving GM's customers more control over their vehicles.
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Subject: Removal of Android Auto/Apple Car Play in Ultium EVs
Dear CEO Barra,
The removal of the projection systems for Android and Apple is a mistake. Given that the cell phone industry is continuing to push for higher and higher speeds and that there is limited bandwidth available, this means that current cell phone networks will be replaced. This has occurred at least twice since OnStar was first deployed and GM United States has never offered a way to upgrade the OnStar cellular receiver/transmitter in their vehicles. GM Canada did offer to upgrade for a price the vehicles in Canada during this last network upgrade.
While I understand GM’s desire to ensure they receive telemetry for product improvement, this can be done without requiring an OnStar account. I also understand that as they currently sit, the mobile device versions of Google Maps and Apple Maps are unable to provide some of the information vehicle integrated mapping software can provide. However, rather than take away the ability to run a cell phone powered map via projection, provide this feature as an added cost item (not too much).
In fact, knowing that there is a significant portion of the population that doesn’t want to have GM, or any other automotive manufacturer, to receive telemetry from their vehicles, here’s a proposal that would bring in some more money for GM and keep everyone reasonably happy:
1985 Pontiac Fiero 2M4, traded for a Fiero GT after 8,000 miles because I didn’t trust the engine. About a month later the first media reports of Fiero 2M4 engine bay fires started showing up.
1985 Pontiac Fiero GT, traded for a Pontiac Transport when it no longer met the needs of a new parent.
1990 Pontiac Transport, traded for a Pontiac Montana after 240,000 miles when my kids got tall enough they needed higher backed seats.
2002 Pontiac Montana AWD, traded after 186,000 miles for a 2012 Chevy Cruze LS for my son’s college graduation.
2012 Chevy Cruze ECO, destroyed by hail after 103,500 miles.
2017 Chevy Volt LT, purchased partly with the insurance check from the Cruze ECO and my current vehicle.
The 2024 Equinox EV 2LT was my number one choice to replace the Volt, but with the removal of the projection system from the vehicle, it is now at the bottom of the list while I look at other options.
Sincerely,
Michael Ober
Colorado
==========
Subject: Removal of Android Auto/Apple Car Play in Ultium EVs
Dear CEO Barra,
The removal of the projection systems for Android and Apple is a mistake. Given that the cell phone industry is continuing to push for higher and higher speeds and that there is limited bandwidth available, this means that current cell phone networks will be replaced. This has occurred at least twice since OnStar was first deployed and GM United States has never offered a way to upgrade the OnStar cellular receiver/transmitter in their vehicles. GM Canada did offer to upgrade for a price the vehicles in Canada during this last network upgrade.
While I understand GM’s desire to ensure they receive telemetry for product improvement, this can be done without requiring an OnStar account. I also understand that as they currently sit, the mobile device versions of Google Maps and Apple Maps are unable to provide some of the information vehicle integrated mapping software can provide. However, rather than take away the ability to run a cell phone powered map via projection, provide this feature as an added cost item (not too much).
In fact, knowing that there is a significant portion of the population that doesn’t want to have GM, or any other automotive manufacturer, to receive telemetry from their vehicles, here’s a proposal that would bring in some more money for GM and keep everyone reasonably happy:
- Base price includes full OnStar with navigation – If the cell network upgrades during the initial or any subsequent subscription OnStar pays to replace the cell network interface.
- Additional cost, not more than $100 - $200 US, add the projection systems back to the vehicle. Android Automotive supports projection systems natively and GM is having to explicitly remove this feature.
- Additional cost, $500 - $1,000 USD – removal of all telemetry from the vehicle via a special OnStar module that doesn’t contain . This gives those who don’t want any telemetry from the vehicle a way to purchase this feature.
1985 Pontiac Fiero 2M4, traded for a Fiero GT after 8,000 miles because I didn’t trust the engine. About a month later the first media reports of Fiero 2M4 engine bay fires started showing up.
1985 Pontiac Fiero GT, traded for a Pontiac Transport when it no longer met the needs of a new parent.
1990 Pontiac Transport, traded for a Pontiac Montana after 240,000 miles when my kids got tall enough they needed higher backed seats.
2002 Pontiac Montana AWD, traded after 186,000 miles for a 2012 Chevy Cruze LS for my son’s college graduation.
2012 Chevy Cruze ECO, destroyed by hail after 103,500 miles.
2017 Chevy Volt LT, purchased partly with the insurance check from the Cruze ECO and my current vehicle.
The 2024 Equinox EV 2LT was my number one choice to replace the Volt, but with the removal of the projection system from the vehicle, it is now at the bottom of the list while I look at other options.
Sincerely,
Michael Ober
Colorado
1 - 20 of 68 Posts
Good start... But if I may add some suggestions:
1. Make the letter in a form of a petition, and mention this forum. Or maybe not a petition, and link the thread about Android auto we already have.
2."If the cell network upgrades during the initial or any subsequent subscription OnStar pays to replace the cell network interface"
Replace "interface" with "networking hardware".
3. Add the fact that Google maps already have the option to find the nearest charger, and will probably have an option of auto route planning for optimal charging in the very near future. Or maybe that's too much...
1. Make the letter in a form of a petition, and mention this forum. Or maybe not a petition, and link the thread about Android auto we already have.
2."If the cell network upgrades during the initial or any subsequent subscription OnStar pays to replace the cell network interface"
Replace "interface" with "networking hardware".
3. Add the fact that Google maps already have the option to find the nearest charger, and will probably have an option of auto route planning for optimal charging in the very near future. Or maybe that's too much...
GM's committed to this plan from everything I've read. A significant chunk of their future revenue depends on it. Could they change their mind in 2026 or 2030? Maybe, but I suspect they will proceed full steam ahead in the near term. But, it can't hurt to let them know the decision is unpopular.
I agree that the chances this will change anything in the near future are slim to none... But yes, we should at least show them that they'll lose some clientele over it.GM's committed to this plan from everything I've read. A significant chunk of their future revenue depends on it. Could they change their mind in 2026 or 2030? Maybe, but I suspect they will proceed full steam ahead in the near term. But, it can't hurt to let them know the decision is unpopular.
Before I knew about this, I didn't even look at anything else, and planned on getting the 2LT or 3LT. Now, I find myself looking at manufacturers with no subscriptions (Mazda, Mitsubishi, Honda, etc), and if I WILL get the Equinox, it will be the 1LT LR +AWD. I'll add my own android auto for it. And we all know the 1LT is probably a loss-leader in that lineup.
Yeah, and unfortunately the base models are the last ones to roll off the assembly line.... 😫
Agreed, they not likely going to change things but they do need to know the impact that decision is going to have on people who are/were considering one of their new EVs.GM's committed to this plan from everything I've read. A significant chunk of their future revenue depends on it. Could they change their mind in 2026 or 2030? Maybe, but I suspect they will proceed full steam ahead in the near term. But, it can't hurt to let them know the decision is unpopular.
Steverino
www.equinoxevforum.com
Check your inbox.
That's true, but I'll wait. My car isn't consuming oil or having any serious issues right now. Also, the more I wait, the higher the chance a better deal will come along.Yeah, and unfortunately the base models are the last ones to roll off the assembly line.... 😫
If GM wants to play stupid games, they'll win stupid prizes.
GM spokeswoman Kelly Cusinato defends the move. She said a GM-built infotainment system will give its customers a better experience than CarPlay or Android Auto. Both Tesla and EV truck maker Rivian use their own in-house-built infotainment systems and do not offer CarPlay or Android Auto.
When asked about GM's future plans to monetize features through the system, Cusinato said, "We are guided by our desire to make the EV customer experience a differentiator in the future and the goal of building on, not stepping back, the benefits Apple CarPlay and Android Auto introduced years ago. We are not expecting customers to pay for basic connectivity.
GM's built-in infotainment system will offer real-time navigation and voice commands, access to a growing list of apps within the Play Store and can read and play back through the voice system text messages from smartphones when connected over Bluetooth, Cusinato said. The new system will also account for the temperature of the EV’s battery when routing the car to a charging station and get the battery ready for charging, thus maximizing range and minimizing charging time when the customer arrives at the station, she said.
"We’re confident customers will see the capabilities, ease of use and benefits of this integrated system, as they become more familiar with it," Cusinato said.
--------------------
So, an in-person test drive is even more important.
When asked about GM's future plans to monetize features through the system, Cusinato said, "We are guided by our desire to make the EV customer experience a differentiator in the future and the goal of building on, not stepping back, the benefits Apple CarPlay and Android Auto introduced years ago. We are not expecting customers to pay for basic connectivity.
GM's built-in infotainment system will offer real-time navigation and voice commands, access to a growing list of apps within the Play Store and can read and play back through the voice system text messages from smartphones when connected over Bluetooth, Cusinato said. The new system will also account for the temperature of the EV’s battery when routing the car to a charging station and get the battery ready for charging, thus maximizing range and minimizing charging time when the customer arrives at the station, she said.
"We’re confident customers will see the capabilities, ease of use and benefits of this integrated system, as they become more familiar with it," Cusinato said.
--------------------
So, an in-person test drive is even more important.
I see "Ultium chargers" are now listed in the GM Owners (My Chevrolet) apps. How much you want to bet that only Ultium chargers will appear in the navigation system?GM spokeswoman Kelly Cusinato defends the move. She said a GM-built infotainment system will give its customers a better experience than CarPlay or Android Auto. Both Tesla and EV truck maker Rivian use their own in-house-built infotainment systems and do not offer CarPlay or Android Auto.
When asked about GM's future plans to monetize features through the system, Cusinato said, "We are guided by our desire to make the EV customer experience a differentiator in the future and the goal of building on, not stepping back, the benefits Apple CarPlay and Android Auto introduced years ago. We are not expecting customers to pay for basic connectivity.
GM's built-in infotainment system will offer real-time navigation and voice commands, access to a growing list of apps within the Play Store and can read and play back through the voice system text messages from smartphones when connected over Bluetooth, Cusinato said. The new system will also account for the temperature of the EV’s battery when routing the car to a charging station and get the battery ready for charging, thus maximizing range and minimizing charging time when the customer arrives at the station, she said.
"We’re confident customers will see the capabilities, ease of use and benefits of this integrated system, as they become more familiar with it," Cusinato said.
--------------------
So, an in-person test drive is even more important.
I can't really see GM building out their own proprietary DCFC network at this point.....too cost prohibitive and you would risk losing Government (i.e. IRA) subsidies, too....
Plus, imagine all the p**sed-off Chevy EV drivers who wouldn't be able to see Chargepoint, EVgo, or EA chargers listed in the NAV system....
No bueno!!!
🤭
Plus, imagine all the p**sed-off Chevy EV drivers who wouldn't be able to see Chargepoint, EVgo, or EA chargers listed in the NAV system....
No bueno!!!
🤭
GM has agreements with a number of charging systems and retail outlets, obermd. So I doubt that they would limit your charge station options to those that bought an "Ultium" branded station.The app is likely for homeowners who buy and install one in their garage and want to control it via the app.How much you want to bet that only Ultium chargers will appear in the navigation system?
Yes, the Ultium chargers are level 2 home units, where you have wifi connectivity to the unit to control it.GM has agreements with a number of charging systems and retail outlets, obermd. So I doubt that they would limit your charge station options to those that bought an "Ultium" branded station.The app is likely for homeowners who buy and install one in their garage and want to control it via the app.
GM showed off the Ultium home charges on one of the walls at the New York Auto Show.Yes, the Ultium chargers are level 2 home units, where you have wifi connectivity to the unit to control it.
I'm trying to decide where it should be installed in my garage. I will also check with my utility company to see if they offer any incentives for installing one or using one of theirs with similar capabilities.
Mine is opposite the charge port, about 3 feet away. I park my car, close the door, the charging station is right there. Very convenient. Takes just seconds to plug in.I'm trying to decide where it should be installed in my garage
While I will not be able to see it on the dash screen that does not mean I can not use my phone and get mapping to any number of changing sites.I can't really see GM building out their own proprietary DCFC network at this point.....too cost prohibitive and you would risk losing Government (i.e. IRA) subsidies, too....
Plus, imagine all the p**sed-off Chevy EV drivers who wouldn't be able to see Chargepoint, EVgo, or EA chargers listed in the NAV system....
No bueno!!!
🤭
And here's the response I received.
We received some correspondence from you at the GM Executive Resolution Team regarding Google Built-In technology that is being integrated into upcoming and future electric vehicles. General Motors has decided that in order to have seamless access to the full breadth of experiences within our advanced in-vehicle displays, we will be integrating industry-leading applications such as Google Maps, Google Assistant, Audible, Spotify, and more.
If you would like to learn more about how General Motors and OnStar will be utilizing Google Built-In, we invite you to review our official website at OnStar Google Built-in | OnStar Services.
If you have any other specific questions, I’d be happy speak with you and will answer what I am able to. My contact information is below in my signature line as well as the service request number, and my contact hours are between Monday and Friday from 08:00 AM to 05:00 PM.
I already have that in my Android auto. It reads and answers not only SMS, but Whatsapp, signal, telegram, pretty much everything.GM spokeswoman Kelly Cusinato defends the move. She said a GM-built infotainment system will give its customers a better experience than CarPlay or Android Auto. Both Tesla and EV truck maker Rivian use their own in-house-built infotainment systems and do not offer CarPlay or Android Auto.
When asked about GM's future plans to monetize features through the system, Cusinato said, "We are guided by our desire to make the EV customer experience a differentiator in the future and the goal of building on, not stepping back, the benefits Apple CarPlay and Android Auto introduced years ago. We are not expecting customers to pay for basic connectivity.
GM's built-in infotainment system will offer real-time navigation and voice commands, access to a growing list of apps within the Play Store and can read and play back through the voice system text messages from smartphones when connected over Bluetooth, Cusinato said. The new system will also account for the temperature of the EV’s battery when routing the car to a charging station and get the battery ready for charging, thus maximizing range and minimizing charging time when the customer arrives at the station, she said.
"We’re confident customers will see the capabilities, ease of use and benefits of this integrated system, as they become more familiar with it," Cusinato said.
--------------------
So, an in-person test drive is even more important.
The best part about it all everyone set them up for a t-ball-style hit and instead they whiffed by doubling down on their stupidity and loosing a ton of sales.I already have that in my Android auto. It reads and answers not only SMS, but Whatsapp, signal, telegram, pretty much everything.
Side note, i already got my deposit back from my dealer, so until they bring carplay or someone hacks it for carplay i won't have a gm ev
1 - 20 of 68 Posts
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