Consumer demand for telematics closely tracks these earlier purchasing models. Research over the years clearly indicates a longstanding priority among women to ensure greater security in their lives. Research also reveals that a majority of men express the attitude that they believe they bear the responsibility in a household to ensure safety and security in the family vehicles. Telematics is meeting these convergent consumer needs. GM revealed in August of 1999 that telematics would eventually become standard across all GM platforms with 1 million subscribers projected by the outset of 2001.
Vehicle safety remains a key concern in a vehicle purchase decision.
Dohring Group research in 1999 reveals that consumers' perceived need toward emergency response and automatic collision notification features in vehicles is growing, ranks higher than the need for side-impact air bags and is nearing the same level of importance as air bags. Many also see enhanced value in telematics-based roadside assistance over more traditional roadside assistance providers. In addition to being able to automatically locate a disabled vehicle, telematics-based roadside services provide the stranded motorist with a more reliable estimated time of arrival and faster response by facilitating the dispatch of the nearest available tow truck. Our response specialists also can notify third parties about the motorists' delay and, if needed, arrange repair services, alternative transportation and lodging accommodations. Individual telematics services also offer the opportunity to appeal to different market segments.