Verizon today introduced Verizon Vehicle, a new after-market connected car product and service.
Verizon Vehicle includes an OBD reader for checking diagnostics, an accompanying mobile application, and a two-way Bluetooth speaker clipped to the visor for communicating with live help and road side assistance.
“It will bring the traditional roadside assistance model into the 21st century,” Eric Goldman, president of Verizon Telematics, said Tuesday during a presentation at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
Verizon’s network will provide the connectivity for the service, which is available regardless of a consumer’s wireless provider.
Safety alerts and diagnostics are sent via text, email and push notifications. The service also provides location data for tracking your vehicle in the event it’s lost or stolen.
Verizon Vehicle also gives customers access to mechanics that can help prescribe issues and give estimates of repair costs. The service will also provide vehicle service and travel discounts.
Verizon promises the device and service will work with almost every vehicle model since 1996.
The product and service is expected to become available through national retailers in spring 2015. The service will run $15 per month and each additional vehicle will cost $13 per month. A two-year contract is required. Verizon values the included equipment at $120. Verizon Vehicle is now available for pre-order.