Forget the eight-speed automatic transmission. One of the coolest features being added to the 2015 Chevrolet Corvette is an all-new Performance Data Recorder feature. When introduced earlier in the year, this technology was designed just to provide drivers with video and telemetry of track sessions, but Chevrolet quickly found a cool new use for the technology with a new Valet Mode.
Acting just like a nanny cam, the camera runs when the car is in Valet Mode to give video and audio evidence if the valet attendants try to pull a Ferris Bueller on you. The video can be watched on the car’s touchscreen (or downloaded to a computer later) showing vehicle data such as speed and g-force as well as in-car audio, so you can check to see if any abuse took place on someone else’s watch. The Valet Mode also disables the infotainment system and locks storage compartments like the glove box and the cubby hole behind the touchscreen display.
“Think of it as a baby monitor for your car. Anyone who has felt apprehension about handing over their keys will appreciate the peace of mind of knowing exactly what happened while their baby was out of sight,” said Harlan Charles, Corvette product manager.
The Corvette’s PDR was developed by the same company responsible for data acquisition system used by Corvette Racing. This system uses a 720p HD camera mounted inside the car at the top of the windshield and a dedicated microphone, which are relayed to an eight-gigabyte SD card in the glove box to record up to 200 minutes of driving – whether on the track or on the road.
“Performance Data Recorder was initially designed as a tool for track days, allowing drivers to record their laps and improve their driving skills. We soon realized the system could have many more applications, such as recording a scenic drive up Highway 101, or recording when the Valet Mode is activated,” added Charles.
The Performance Data Recorder will be available on all 2015 Corvettes (and standard on the 3LT Coupe, Convertible and Z51 models), but pricing has not been announced yet. There's also the possibility that this technology will be offered on other Chevrolet or General Motors products in the future.
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