Chrysler Offers New Vehicle Tracking System

Chrysler thinks vehicle owners are ready for a device that will tell them where their car is at any moment, as well as where it has been, and how fast it's been driven.

The device is aimed primarily at fleet owners. But there will also likely be a consumer market, especially among parents of new drivers.

"There may be some teens that question about it," said Jim Sassorossi, director sales and marketing, for Chrysler's Mopar parts division. "But, we do know the peace of mind for the parents is just invaluable."

The Mopar Electronic Vehicle Tracking System goes on sale immediately. The $459 option will allow your vehicle to be tracked by police if it's stolen. There are also subscription services that give you detailed tracking information.

"You can watch where the vehicle is traveling during the time," said Sassarossi. "You can even set up parameters and guidelines."

Sassarossi telling WWJ AutoBeat Reporter that the Vehicle Tracking System also provides information on where the vehicle has been and how it's been driven, and alerts if it's not being driven the way you want it driven.

Jeff Gilbert talks with Chrysler's Jim Sassarosi in today's Worldwide Automotive Report.

"You can even get text alerts if the vehicle is traveling too fast. If it's going outside the agreed upon are where the teen or the person would be driving."

The tracking system will be available on most new Chrysler vehicles as a dealer option. In some cases, they will even be able to install it on vehicles that are already on the road.

Chrysler says this is not meant to be a "big brother" system. Rather, it is a way for owners of a vehicle to know exactly how others are using it.

"That can help the parents to help work with their kids about driving safe and following safe guidelines," said Sassarossi.

The following information was provided by Chrysler, about the Vehicle Tracking Service, and associated fees.

Mopar EVTS Base Plan

• GPS stolen-vehicle locator service
• Real-time GPS stolen-vehicle tracking
• $1,000 theft protection warranty
• Transferable
• Upgradeable
• Part number: 82212457
• MSRP: $459 (does not include installation)

Mopar EVTS Silver Plan

• E-Call 24/7 emergency service dispatch
• Security Fence
• Automatic theft notification
• OnCall™ (on-board panic button)
• Excessive speed notification
• Arrival/Departure notification
• Historic trace maps of vehicle's past location
• Online tracking (200 per year)
• Part number: 82212459
• Annual Fee: $149 (one-year service, renewable)

Mopar EVTS Gold Plan (available only at time of installation)

• E-Call 24/7 emergency service dispatch
• Security Fence
• Automatic theft notification
• OnCall™ (on-board panic button)
• Excessive speed notification
• Arrival/Departure notification
• Historic trace maps of vehicle's past location