GM Prepares to Debut OnStar Telematics Service in Europe

General Motors Co. is preparing to debut its OnStar in-car wireless service in 10 European markets this summer.

The 19-year-old service claims about 7 million customers in North America. OnStar offers subscribers a three-button system to access such services as emergency aid, Internet connectivity, help in finding destinations, remote vehicle diagnostics and the ability to track their stolen vehicle.

Customers can use OnStar's signature blue button on the rearview mirror to connect with a live person who can help them in their native language. GM plans to offer the service free in OnStar-equipped cars for a year. An OnStar subscription costs about $350 (€310) per year in the U.S.

GM will offer OnStar in its Opel and Vauxhall cars beginning in France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the U.K. in August. Other European markets, including Russia, will follow.