VW’s CarNet Technology for the Jetta and Passat

The BMW Assist and the GM OnStar system have both been out for about 10 years, but now finally Volkswagen is coming out in 2014 with their new in-vehicle safety features called the CarNet system. The VW CarNet system will include features such as scheduling for appointments, automatic crash notifications and remote vehicle status. But, that is only a few of the features, CarNet also will include “last parked location,” which will display on a mobile app the last place you parked your car. This feature will make locating your vehicle in the parking lot of a large venue like is at sporting events and airports and even shopping malls easy. 

This “last parked location” feature will save lots of time and much hassle, especially when you are late to board an airplane or late for a game and have no time to jot down or text yourself as to where you parked. An additional feature of the CarNet system is the “boundary alert.” This lets the driver have preset driving boundaries, which is especially handy for young drivers to keep track of their driving behavior and get text messages when those boundaries are crossed. Still another addition to the CarNet system is the roadside assistance, which automatically will transmit the VW driver’s VIN number and location to VW’s vehicle assistance bureau.

All these great features are quite a bit crammed into one car assistance program, but they are all designed by VW to let them go head-to-head with GM and BMW when it comes to adding value for the driver. Now, because you know a bit about the CarNet system, you would most likely want to know all the vehicles it will launch on and when it will be available. The models the CarNet system will launch on include the VW Tiguan, Eos, Beetle, Passat, CC, Jetta, and the Beetle Convertible. Just as other automakers have done in the past, VW will also roll out their CarNet system on their whole fleet.  

In addition, just as other automakers systems, the CarNet system will have a small annual or monthly cost. VW will pay for the first six months costs for drivers who either lease or purchase a vehicle equipped with the CarNet system, but once the six months ends, the driver can continue the system, by purchasing it on an annual or monthly basis. For drivers who wish to pay yearly the cost is $199 and for drivers who wish to pay monthly the cost is $17.99, and both prices are comparable with other automakers systems.

In conclusion, many people may wonder why VW waited until 2014 to come out with this technology, especially since other automakers have had it for the last 10 years. VW clearly desired to create a system that was unique and could not be considered a copycat of other systems by adding their own unique features no one has ever seen. Obviously, they have done that, never mind how long it took them. The features of “last parked location” and “boundary alert” are amazing features that are innovative and will integrate perfectly with mobile technology, saving time and frustration to drivers. No doubt, CarNet can never be considered just another driver assistance system because of its own unique features.

If you would like other information about Volkswagen vehicles or the CarNet system, get in touch with your local VW dealership today because the debut of the system on select models will be in 2014 and you will want to be among the first to experience this new driver assistance system. 

O'Steen Volkswagen is your premier Jacksonville Volkswagen dealership. If you want to buy a VW in Jacksonville, stop by O’Steen Volkswagen today!