GM to Bring Amazon Alexa to Canadian Vehicles
2020-06-22
OSHAWA, Ont. (June 22, 2020) – Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac owners in Canada now have the ability to add convenience and productivity to their daily drives through a new in-vehicle Alexa1 experience. Leveraging embedded available 4G LTE connectivity and GM’s updateable embedded app framework in the vehicle, Alexa is built-in to GM model year 2018 and newer cars, trucks and crossovers with compatible infotainment systems2.
According to eMarketer 2019, we know that 5.8 million Canadians use a smart speaker at least once a month – an increase of 51 per cent from the previous year. The Alexa voice experience in GM vehicles leverages the Amazon Alexa Auto Software Development Kit, which brings the Alexa experience that has delighted customers at home into the vehicle. It adds automotive-specific functionality and contextualizes the experience for the vehicle.
“Now more than ever, we are looking for ways to help our customers stay more connected as they start to get back on the road,” said Mike Speranzini, Director, Global Connected Services & Customer Experience, GM Canada. “Bringing the Alexa experience to our Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac vehicles is a prime example of how we are listening to our customers’ feedback and enhancing the ownership experience by offering the voice technology of their choice.”
Drivers can enjoy Alexa by using simple voice commands, all while keeping their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel: Check the news, control smart home devices like lights or thermostats, add items to their shopping cart, and access Alexa skills. Additionally, GM is delivering several categories of Alexa features to customers that expand on the in-vehicle experience, including:
- Navigation – Ask Alexa to get directions to a specific address or point of interest, such as a vehicle dealer, or ask for nearby coffee shops. Alexa seamlessly integrates with compatible, embedded navigation systems in the vehicle or available OnStar Turn-by-Turn navigation using natural language.
- Media – Ask Alexa to play a specific song, artist, genre, or station, as well as audiobooks or podcasts. Alexa can fulfill the request by bringing up available streaming services.
- Calling – Drivers can ask Alexa to call friends and family using their voice when they pair their phone via Bluetooth and sync their contacts in the Amazon Alexa app.
“Customers already love using Alexa at home and we’re excited to work with GM to expand the experience to their vehicles in Canada,” said Ned Curic, Vice President of Alexa Auto at Amazon. “Whether customers are looking for a new car or own a compatible Chevrolet, Buick, GMC or Cadillac vehicle, they can access Alexa to stay connected, entertained, and productive.”
This integration represents the latest collaboration between GM and Amazon. For more information about how customers can set up Alexa visit Onstar.ca.
1Amazon, Alexa and all related marks are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.
2Visit onstar.ca for coverage maps, details and system limitations. Services vary by model and/or vehicle configuration, service plan and conditions as well as geographical and technical restrictions. Service plan required.
About General Motors Canada
General Motors of Canada Company markets Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac vehicles through our strong Canadian network of dealers, as well as OnStar services. Headquartered in Oshawa, Ontario, GM Canada is a recognized leader in advanced manufacturing, green operations, active safety, and autonomous and connected vehicle technology research and development. More information on the company can be found at www.gm.ca or by following @GMcanada on Twitter or Instagram.
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