CarPlay and Android Auto now available for GM EVs, thanks to new kit

In a move that addresses consumer demand, White Automotive & Media Services has announced a kit that enables Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality in certain General Motors electric vehicles. This development is particularly significant for models utilizing the Ultium platform, which have previously lacked these popular connectivity features. The installation of the kit at LaFontaine Chevrolet in Plymouth, Michigan, aims to offer seamless integration similar to that found in OEM systems, delivering features like turn-by-turn navigation and music playback directly to the vehicle's main display and heads-up display where applicable. While it remains uncertain how much the upgrade will cost, consumer reaction indicates a notable frustration regarding GM's initial omission of these technologies. The lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support has raised concerns and questions about how it may have affected sales compared to competitors that have successfully integrated these systems. Interestingly, there is speculation that the success of other brands, such as Honda and Acura, may result in part from their utilization of GM's underlying technology while providing Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The functionality of the kit purportedly reflects OEM-level integration, allowing users to interact with these systems as they would expect in any standard vehicle equipped with Apple CarPlay. Users can expect a clean interface that adapts to various GM vehicles, including models like the Silverado EV, Equinox EV, and Blazer EV, utilizing the vehicles' large display screens effectively. As consumers increasingly rely on smartphone integration for their driving experience, the announcement from WAMS comes at a time when the automotive industry is shifting toward a more technology-driven focus. Pending inquiries regarding any potential impacts on warranties or over-the-air update capabilities remain unanswered, but the company is actively seeking bookings for the new kit. Clear communication and transparency will be essential for GM as it navigates consumer expectations and competition in an evolving automotive landscape.