VAUXHALL'S new satellite-based communication system, OnStar, will make its first appearance in the new Vectra when it is launched in March. The system will be one of several hi-tech launches from manufacturers this year, including Ford and Volvo, to feed growing demand for more information to save time while drivers are on the road.

OnStar will be an option throughout the range and cost about £700 when it goes on sale, with plans for it to become an option on the Omega range shortly afterwards. Vauxhall is considering plans for the system to be rolled out throughout other models during the year, including the Astra.

Communication is through the car's telephone, which means it must be specified with the Phillips CCRT 700 carphone. Pushing an OnStar button on the phone connects the driver with Vauxhall's 24-hour information centre, a service which will be supplied by the AA and which pinpoints the car via a global positioning system. The centre has on-line access to traffic monitoring sources and will give general navigation information, suggest alternative routes and guide callers to car parks, hotels and other requested destinations. Importantly for pan-European fleets it provides coverage on the Continent, with Vauxhall drivers' calls answered in English wherever they are.