GM to unveil key fob that checks tire pressure, changes radio station

[one...two...tree 2,762]

Key fobs aren't just for unlocking doors anymore.

General Motors plans to introduce a remote-control key fob next April that will allow drivers to determine the air pressure in each tire, check the odometer reading, see if there is enough fuel in the tank and change the radio-station settings, to name a few.

The device will be a $150 option on Cadillac Escalades and other full-size GM SUVs, pickups and crossover utility vehicles.

Automakers have been giving the remote-control key fob more and more tasks. Some operate power windows. Others are keyed to a car's memory settings and re-set seats, mirrors and the stereo to the driver's preference after a different driver has been using the vehicle.

BMW and Mercedes-Benz offer systems that adjust a vehicle's seats and mirrors to a driver's preferences not from the fob but as soon as the driver touches the outside door handle.

Volvo plans a system that can detect a heartbeat and alert the driver if someone is lurking inside the car.

http://www.azcentral.com/business/articles...talker1116.html

[I'm Gone 60]

Tire gauge costs $10.00. I can check the mileage and fuel by looking at the gauges and can reach over the 1 foot to change the radio station.

[Hilarious Clinton 452]

Tire gauge costs $10.00. I can check the mileage and fuel by looking at the gauges and can reach over the 1 foot to change the radio station.

people don't check their tire pressure as often as they should I bet. I probably check once a quarter.

[Jenn! 918]

This is going to totally change my life!

[Jenn! 918]

edit double post

Edited November 16, 2006 by jenn3539

[I'm Gone 60]

Tire gauge costs $10.00. I can check the mileage and fuel by looking at the gauges and can reach over the 1 foot to change the radio station.

people don't check their tire pressure as often as they should I bet. I probably check once a quarter.

So are they going to remember to check them with the $150 device?

[Mrs. Forgetful 2]

Cool stuff! To bad I wont have it in my car.

[Irisheyes 0]

As soon as they come out with one that drives me to work as I finish my sleep, THEN I'll be impressed!

[one...two...tree 2,762]

As soon as they come out with one that drives me to work as I finish my sleep, THEN I'll be impressed!

That would be PERFECT!

[Ban Hammer 13,336]

As soon as they come out with one that drives me to work as I finish my sleep, THEN I'll be impressed!

That would be PERFECT!

they already have such. it's called a "chauffeur"

[Hilarious Clinton 452]

Tire gauge costs $10.00. I can check the mileage and fuel by looking at the gauges and can reach over the 1 foot to change the radio station.

people don't check their tire pressure as often as they should I bet. I probably check once a quarter.

So are they going to remember to check them with the $150 device?

I'm sure the readings will be displayed on the dashboard. Some off-road vehicles allow you to check and fill the tires from the driver's seat.

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tiretech/tec...e.jsp?techid=44

[JenT 0]

I want one to make me coffee in the morning.

Wait... that's what my new husband is for

[AnaAndDaniel 0]

isn't fob = Fresh Off Boat? do these fobs have papers?

Daniel

:energetic:

[lucyrich 20]

I'm sure the readings will be displayed on the dashboard. Some off-road vehicles allow you to check and fill the tires from the driver's seat.

Checking the tire pressure from the driver's seat and displaying the results on the dashboard is reasonable enough.

But why should you have to use your keyfob to do that? Why not have a button on the dash that does it, instead of a button on the tiny keyfob. Better yet, why not have the car itself automatically check and display continuously, or every so many hours, or every so many miles, or whatever?

[mawilson 2,133]

This is going to totally change my life!