An emergency call system for cars has been around for a while. For example think of the GM OnStar safety device system providing a quick response in case of accident. An equivalent system called “eCall” will be mandatory on all new European cars sold after April 16, 2018. Reasoning that motorcycles are more prone to a crash than cars, the European Union now wants manufacturers to equip all motorcycles with an an S.O.S alert system.
Since 2017, some BMW motorcycles already offers the “Intelligent Emergency Call” sent automatically or manually by the rider to emergency responders. Studies show that the emergency crews would be able to get to the accident scene 40 to 50% faster ending p saving around 2,500 lives every year in Europe alone. What about the US?
Never liked onstar, blue link or whatever other labels this technology falls under. Knowing full well that “they” can shut down a vehicle remotely bothers me. Not saying I’d be doing anything nefarious but…..just leave me the “F” alone and I’ll take my risks just living. O.k.? is that too much to ask?
+1 Shanedrive
Government just cant stay out of anything! I can see the emergency call system as an option but NOT mandatory on all bikes!
Probably being pushed by BMW as an opportunity to make more money, as systems such as on star have subscriber fees.
Yeah…I want something that says “GFY!”.
MORE BIG BROTHER. fyi Folks You can disconnect Your Onstar on General Maintanence and
Chebby’s at the back of the rear view Mirror on the windshield. Unplug the line in and all monitoring
and satellite link ups are disabled. Or You can locate the Onstar box usually behind the glovebox or
under the centre seat in the pick ups.
Oh goody, I’ve been hoping somebody would find a way to raise the price of bikes-NOT.
sounds like a great idea…………………………………for them!
Usually, when a rider needs assistance the right hand grip is some distance from the rider. Just another
Bring
More
Withya
tactic.
The GM OnStar safety device system operates without the subscription. It’s part of the vehicle safety device. If you’re in an accident and the airbag deploys, it automatically kicks in.
1984
Love my Onstar,best navigation system made.
I doubt we’ll see this in the US for at least 7 years while Trumps in office — he doesn’t put up with this BS.
If it helps save lives, isn’t hackable, and doesn’t significantly increase cost, I’m for it. Trump is against anything that “big government” does, even if it’s good. Or I should say especially if it’s good.
Or tracking, with on-board GPS and a subscribed service they need to know where to
find you, or, as predicted in the US insurance carriers will require you to subscribe to
monitoring systems (it’s voluntary now, thing progressive snap shot) in order to get discounts.
Wait until the data becomes usable for carriers to monitor your driving habits, total miles
speeds, time, type of roads etc. It’s coming, you can opt out, but the carrier won’t write
anyone unless the data is “voluntarily” supplied, those wanting individual freedom from
oversight will be punished with either no coverage or high risk options.
In an accident, data will be obtained by subpoena to see who’s telling the truth.
Big Brother will be watching, I’m going to get me an old shovel or pan….
Call it a safety measure all you want but this is blatant government control. peace
Quite a few tin hats in the comment section. A simple Google search would show that the BASIC eCall system adds about $125 to the price of a car (probably a bit more for a motorcycle), and that the basic system only dials 112 (the EU version of 911) with a location IF the system is triggered by an airbag, g-shock or button press. No other monitoring or information provided unless you talk into the mic. Not exactly Big Brother. Your smart phone already does this if you call 911 from it.
Optionally, manufacturers can add features to the eCall system like OnStar, BMW Assist, etc. which add concierge services for a fee. This can also include other emergency telematics such as which airbags deployed, car rollover, doors open, etc. Completely optional.
Agreed it shouldn’t be mandatory, but a nice feature to add for a few bucks.
Marcus go ride in Europe then. You totally miss the point of those you accuse of tin hats. We are against Mandatory government intrusion of our lives! If you want these systems for yourself, fine. As to the other guy above attacking our president for being inclined to protect Americans freedoms, is anyone surprised he is from MA. ?
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