Smartphone app remotely controls Chevy Volt - one ups Prius

Smartphones like the iPhone, Motorola Droid, and Blackberry Storm have, from the moment they arrived, packed a whole lot of smart into one little device. With thousands of apps, unlimited html browsing, constant access to media, and unique sleek designs and interfaces, smartphones have revolutionized the way the world does business and play.

Now, the iPhone, Droid, and Storm are brightening their IQs a little more with the ability to remotely control the Chevy Volt.

Hybrid car enthusiasts have high expectations for the 2010 Chevy Volt. Its 40 mile fully electric range, smart engine, and plug-in technology have made the Volt an industry leader.

Other plug-in hybrids like the 2010 Toyota Prius and Fisker Karma have plans to unveil "competitive" models in 2010; undoubtedly, both cars will capture a portion of the plug-in hybrid market share as the economical option and as the luxury sport car option, but when it comes to exceeding the needs of everyday consumers, the Chevy Volt cannot be touched.

With the new smartphone app developed by OnStar, Chevy is maintaining its crown and proclaiming its dominance by showcasing, in a small way, the future of technology in plug-in hybrid cars.

According to a Chevy Volt press release, the smartphone will be able to access the car's real time charging status and charging schedule, program grid-friendly charging times, set cabin temperatures, check fuel economy performance, send reminders to charge the car, and unlock doors.

The smartphone app is almost as good as a personal valet, only Chevy and OnStar haven't legally discovered a way to autopilot the vehicle.

Either way, the smartphone's access to the vehicles computer is both technologically and environmentally savvy.

Programmable charge times allows energy conscious consumers to select non-peak grid hours to recharge, and carbon conscious consumers can take advantage of checking real time fuel economy - all from the convenience of the iPhone, Droid, or Storm.

It is hard to pass on the idea of using a smartphone to remotely control the technologically smart Chevy Volt.