Chevy’s 2013 Spark and Sonic Models to Feature Apple’s Siri Assistant

Nov. 29, 2012 - PRLog -- Beginning with 2013 Spark and Sonic models, Chevy will become the first carmaker in the U.S. to offer Apple’s Siri feature (http://www.nydailynews.com/autos/chevrolet-u-s-carmaker-feature-siri-article-1.1208773#ixzz2DSinyAEZ). They’re following in the footsteps of Mercedes-Benz, who was the first car company to integrate the technology in its models.

This special in-car version of the voice-activated feature, named Siri Eyes Free, is designed to allow drivers to use smartphone features, while leaving their eyes on the road and not on their phone.

The feature is compatible with the iPhone 4S and iPhone 5 devices. The way it works is the driver pushes the steering-wheel-mounted voice activation button and can then make hands-free calls, scroll through their iTunes library, create messages, as well as other functions such as finding out what the weather is or will be like.

Chevrolet wants to make sure the safety of its drivers and passengers is their top priority. By adding this technology, Chevy is increasing its levels of in-car connectivity and entertainment, while at the same time reducing the level of distraction drivers would face.  

More and more accidents occur due to an increase in the number of drivers who use smartphones. New federal guidelines have been established to help limit in-car distractions created by any device that forces drivers to use their hands or divert their eyes away from the road and the primary task of driving.

According to State Farm’s annual Distracted Driving survey, 48% of drivers who are 18-29 years old say they surf the internet on their handset while driving, more than a third admit they check social media sites, and 30% say they update their status. By adding this technology to the 2013 Spark and Sonic, Chevrolet is doing its part in helping reduce distractions on the road.

Those interested in checking out this new technology or looking to gather more information should stop by the Libertyville-area Chevy dealer, located at 1001 South Milwaukee Avenue in Libertyville. Consumers will be able to see how this feature works. The staff at Libertyville Chevrolet is extremely knowledgeable and will be able to assist with any questions that customers may have. For more information contact the sales department. (http://www.libertyvillechevrolet.com/contact-form.htm)