The universal add-on for vehicles that will bring OnStar service will arrive at dealers on August 1, CE Outlook reported. The FMV kit will carry with it a monthly subscription fee and allow users to have some of the same features as GM vehicles with an OEM integrated version of the system. Dealers will begin placing final orders for the units this month, with early marketing set to begin later this week or next week.
OnStar officially said the mirror is arriving in stores in the summer for the $300 accessory. A monthly subscription will add $19 per month or $200 per year. OnStar will launch several campaigns to promote the product, including advertising and in-store promotions.
The mirror has an Automatic Crash Response feature that will detect crashes and alerts a call center. It has a GPS for reporting the location and an accelerometer will recognize a crash. It also offers turn-by-turn navigation and lets users speak to a call center in case of emergency. Hands-free calling is possible with or without a cellphone.
Some retailers are concerned that certain basic features are missing, such as a dimmer or compass, and also say the mirror is somewhat big and obstructs outward visibility.
