GM Launches Maps+, an App-Based Navigation Solution, across Canada
Current eligible owners can now access personalized, relevant, and integrated navigation through a simple in-vehicle app download
2022-03-16
OSHAWA, Ont. (Wednesday, March 16, 2022) – GM Canada announces the launch of Maps+1, an app-based navigation solution, powered by Mapbox, upgrading capabilities for select model year 2018 and newer Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac vehicles.
This in-vehicle navigation app system is designed to give drivers an enhanced user experience and learn more about the surrounding area as they travel to their destination. Through the vehicle’s in-vehicle head unit and one, simple interface, the app also offers up-to-date information such as Points of Interest (POI), categories, traffic, and parking lots that are customized to driver preferences and continually updated.
For the first time in Canada, GM eligible vehicles that previously did not have a navigation app can start navigation with Alexa Built-In2 voice control without needing to leave the navigation experience to switch music or podcasts. Maps+ provides a connected ecosystem of voice assistant navigation and app into a singular, integrated audio experience.
Maps+ is now available in Canada as part of select Connected Services plans as a simple in-vehicle app download. This rollout leverages GM’s growing connected fleet of vehicles and demonstrates the company’s commitment to delivering customer experiences throughout the lifetime of the vehicle. The maps and routes will be updated automatically without requiring action by the driver.
“At GM, we always strive to provide an easy-to-use in-vehicle experience – which is why we offer voice commands, navigation and media that customers can access through their favourite apps,” said Mike Speranzini, director, global connected services, and customer experience at GM Canada. “This is why we are excited to launch a navigation product that works seamlessly with our current infotainment offerings.”
“Our obsession is the driver,” said Peter Sirota, CEO of Mapbox. “We are transforming the car to be a device that provides a richer extension of the current mobile experience. The map is the canvas that serves as a foundation for creating an effortless, enjoyable, and highly personalized driving experience. From discovering new places to avoiding traffic on your commute, Maps+ lays the foundation for an excellent navigation experience that is uniquely relevant to the driver. We are excited to build upon this with our partners at GM to continue to drive adoption.”
The features of Maps+ include:
Cross-App Integration
- Use voice commands to get directions with Alexa Built-In
- Navigate favourite songs and podcasts in one simple interface
Personalization
- Favourite locations and points of interest
- Predictive keyboard entry when searching for points of interest
- Modern map designs with day and night mode options
- Shortcuts for search categories, such as coffee, food, fuel, parking, recent spots and favourites
Contextually Relevant Services
- Routing based on real-time traffic and daily updating map data
- Speed limit alerts, road hazard alerts
- Routing to nearby stations if vehicle is low on fuel
- Notifications and alerts when a faster route is found
Maps+ will be available on select vehicles through select Connected Vehicle and Premium subscription plans. Current eligible Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac owners will be notified when their vehicle is eligible for Maps+.
1U.S. and Canada only. Available on properly equipped 2018 model year and newer GM vehicles. Select service plan, working electrical system and vehicle network connection required. Functionality is subject to user terms and limitations and varies by vehicle model. See onstar.ca for details and limitations.
2Functionality is subject to limitations and varies by vehicle, infotainment system, and location. Select service plan required. Certain Alexa Skills require account linking to use. Amazon, Alexa and all related marks are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. See onstar.ca for additional details.