Locked your keys in the car again? GM makes remote start and door unlock app feature standard on 2014 models

By Marcus Amick Published June 7, 2013

General Motors is likely to win over a few more consumers with news that its door unlock and remote engine start app service will now be offered as standard technology on new models.

The applications, which operate through GM’s new RemoteLink Key Fob Services equipped with OnStar, will be offered as standard features on 2014 Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac models for five years.

Recommended Videos

According to GM’s official press release, it’s the broadest deployment of remote services offered through a mobile app by any auto manufacturer. Currently, 36 2014 model year GM vehicles are compatible with the RemoteLink mobile app.

Even better, owners can opt out on paying for other OnStar services to use the app to remotely start their car and unlock the door.

“We know our customers value remote services,” said Mary Chan, president GM Global Connected Consumer. “GM owners request remote door unlock assistance through OnStar more than 60,000 times each month, so it makes sense for us to offer RemoteLink Key Fob Services to enable customers to lock, unlock or start their vehicle from anywhere they have a wireless or cellular connection.”

According to GM, remote start is the most popular service offered with the RemoteLink mobile app.

The GM app system also offers a service that enables owners to check the status of a vehicle’s operating systems such as remaining oil life, fuel level range in miles, tire pressure, and miles per gallon. In addition, the RemoteLink app is available with a one-touch connection service that enables a user to contact an OnStar advisor in emergency situations. The services’ “directions and connections” plan allows a GM vehicle owner to send turn-by-turn directions directly from their smartphone to their vehicle.

To use the RemoteLink, an owner of the 2014 GM vehicle simply needs to download the free application to a compatible smartphone.

First introduced on the Chevrolet Volt in 2010, the RemoteLink app is available for nearly all GM brands. It has been downloaded more than 1.5 million times with more than 320,000 regular users, according to the automaker.

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Marcus Amick has been writing about the world of cars for more than ten years and has covered everything from new automobiles…

Cars

Faraday Future could unveil lowest-priced EV yet at CES 2025

Faraday Future FF 91

Given existing tariffs and what’s in store from the Trump administration, you’d be forgiven for thinking the global race toward lower electric vehicle (EV) prices will not reach U.S. shores in 2025.

After all, Chinese manufacturers, who sell the least expensive EVs globally, have shelved plans to enter the U.S. market after 100% tariffs were imposed on China-made EVs in September.

Cars

Hyundai Ioniq 9 vs. Tesla Model Y: Does electric SUV beat the bestselling EV?

Hyundai Ioniq 9 driving

The long-awaited Hyundai Ioniq 9 is finally on the way, after months of waiting for what many hope will be a true competitor to the Kia EV9. The electric SUV is likely to be one of the go-to options for those who want a larger EV at a lower price than the likes of the Rivian R1S. But, while it's larger than the Tesla Model Y, it's also likely to be a little more expensive.

The two vehicles are a bit different when it comes to things like performance, range, and charging. Is the Hyundai Ioniq 9 worth the extra cash, or should you go for the cheaper, yet smaller car? We put the two head-to-head to find out.
Design
The overall designs of the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and Tesla Model Y are pretty different, and that may be enough to sway your buying decision. The Ioniq 9 is a true SUV; it's big and boxy, and while it looks a little sleeker than some SUVs thanks to its curved roofline, it's clearly larger than the Tesla Model Y. At the front of the Ioniq 9 is a long light bar separated into pixel-like blocks that helps give the vehicle a unique design motif. At the rear of the Ioniq 9, you'll also find pixel lights curving around the sides and top of the trunk. The Ioniq 9 measures 199.2 inches long, 78 inches wide, and 70.5 inches high.

Cars

Volvo EX90 vs Tesla Model Y: Is Tesla’s cheaper EV also better?

2025 Volvo EX90 front quarter view.

The Volvo EX90 is finally here. The all-electric Volvo SUV was first unveiled a few years ago, but after some delays, the sleek Scandinavian vehicle is now available for order. As an electric SUV, it will go up against the likes of the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and Kia EV9. However, it will also have to compete with the most popular electric vehicle out there: the Tesla Model Y.

There are some clear differences between the two vehicles. While the Volvo EX90 is noticeably larger, the Tesla Model Y is significantly cheaper. Should you spend the extra cash for Volvo’s electric SUV, or should you opt for the Tesla?
Design
Perhaps the most obvious difference between the two vehicles lies in their design. The EX90 is more of a traditional SUV, featuring a big, boxy build that’s larger than the arguably crossover-sized Tesla Model Y. Beyond basic dimensions, however, there are plenty of other design differences. For instance, the Volvo EX90 has a more traditional appearance compared to the Model Y, which, despite being on the market for some time, remains relatively unique when compared to vehicles from other manufacturers. That’s not to say the EX90 looks dated — on the contrary, it’s sleek and stylish, showcasing Volvo’s signature design.