It's a factory-branded accessory, which means it will be sold as a Nissan-branded part, but it's "powered by Guidepoint" -- in other words, we designed, engineered and built the unit, and will provide all the services. The new Nissan VTRS, as it's called, also utilizes wireless connectivity by T-Mobile USA to ensure maximum nationwide coverage for vehicle tracking and recovery services.
This is actually the second factory-branded accessory program we've launched in the last month or so. A few weeks ago, Chrysler announced its new Electronic Vehicle Tracking System to the press. Guidepoint is also the exclusive supplier of technology and services for that program.
Reporter Rachel Smith notes in a story for U.S. News and World Report: "Technology is revolutionizing the way we drive. There’s the voice-activated Ford SYNC system, On-Star and navigation systems -- among others -- that make driving easier. Mopar adds another system to the list: the Electronic Vehicle Tracking System (EVTS), which helps locate stolen vehicles and features a nationwide tracking system. EVTS is available with Chrysler models."
For some of us at Guidepoint, this is starting to feel a little bit like deja vu all over again. Back in the old days when we worked at Code-Alarm, we saw some of our innovations (e.g., key fobs, remote starters) move from aftermarket niche products to dealer accessories parts and, eventually, factory-installed equipment.
Likewise, we've seen GPS tracking move from a very niche-oriented product 10 years ago to a desirable solution that the consumer market has embraced. As the car companies roll out GPS tracking out as a factory-branded part, it will expose the category to even more consumers; at some point, the penetration will reach a point where the car makers want to put one on virtually every vehicle. It's a story that's happened a hundred times - from intermittent windshield wipers to air-conditioning to FM radios.
The difference with GPS tracking, of course, is that we're not just selling "parts." Let's face it, creating a black box with a GPS receiver and wireless modem is easy; providing the back-end software and delivering the service to consumers is the hard part. When someone has their car stolen or is lost in the middle of the night, they don't want to talk to a tech; they want to talk to someone who can solve their problem. Our decade of experience in handling stolen vehicle recoveries and delivering services like driving directions, towing help, or emergency dispatch are what make us different from virtually everyone else in the industry except for OnStar.
Here's what Rand had to say about today's announcement: “Location-based services using the pinpoint accuracy of GPS are gaining in popularity, and we’re excited to be working with Nissan to offer this very unique safety, security and convenience accessory,” said Rand Mueller, founder and chief executive officer of Guidepoint. “We’ve developed a comprehensive system that’s easy to sell, easy to install and easy to use. We’re confident that Nissan dealerships will recognize the significant value they can provide their customers with this accessory product.”
