Continuous, unbroken coverage has been the missing link in vehicle telematics until now, according to Greg Everett, owner of Auto-Bolt Security Systems, specialists in vehicle security and safety products. "We have solved that challenge utilizing true satellite coverage in your vehicle, at low cost," Everett claimed. Auto-Bolt Security Systems introduced an "invisible, remote-controlled dead-bolt locking system for vehicle doors" about 18 months ago, which is now being used by many owners of commercial vehicles, such as contractors and couriers. The commercial users like the system's ability to keep doors "dead-bolted" shut until the owner disarms them by remote, according to Everett. "Satellite offers a global footprint of coverage," said Dan Daogaru, chief technician, "and now we can offer this product to the industry, to the end user, below the cost of other telematic devices, with more functionality and capabilities, and with global coverage." AutoStar uses the SkyTel(TM) ReFlex 50 two-way paging network in combination with Tri-Band GSM/GPRS for primary network access. Once the device leaves either of those networks, or has poor signal, the device automatically switches to the GlobalStar(TM)Satellite Telecommunications network for true satellite coverage. "Since we've combined both two-way paging and tri-band GSM/GPRS along with true satellite coverage, we will have unlimited coverage world wide," Daogaru said. "Because of this continuous coverage, we have a far superior telematic product than anything available on the market today," Everett said. "We are interested in producing an OEM solution for other companies who want to configure our product to replace their current product line under their own brand name, as well as our own." "Imagine being able to send data and commands back and forth to your vehicle, placing satellite phone calls, or connecting to the Internet" said Daogaru, "with essentially the same upload and download speed of a DSL line to your car, with a suggested retail price of under $600." According to Daogaru, features include Class 2 Data-Bus communication with CAN based electrical systems, OBD II diagnostics and trouble-shooting "over the air," Real Time navigation, Geo-Fencing, and up to 40 I lines. "It appears that Delphi, Visteon, Wingcast, and others have backed away from telematics recently, while we stepped up to the plate for a grand slam," Everett boasted. Everett said he hopes that auto manufacturers contact them regarding making this device a "must have" for all their vehicles, as this device can transmit all the data generated from the ECM (of the vehicle) to their own data bank, for better service and warranty coverage from even the most remote location. Although orders may be placed now, the AutoStar will launch at the 2003 Consumer Electronics Show Jan. 9-12, 2003, in Las Vegas.