"telematics module" and "1 year subscription"

[solartogo]

Under the "interior" then "tech" in the builder, there is a "connectivity" item called the "Slote Telematics Module". Described as a cellular bridge, providing remote access and battery preconditioning.

Looks like it is a "custom cell phone" module, probably providing an "optional" way to let people track your Slate. Doesn't mention if it can be turned on or off, so you can choose when to be tracked, or how hard it would be install/uninstall -- it looks like 3 screws for the physical install, not obvious about any electrical connections, nor where the item would be installed.

 

[LevelHeaded]

Under the "interior" then "tech" in the builder, there is a "connectivity" item called the "Slote Telematics Module". Described as a cellular bridge, providing remote access and battery preconditioning.

Looks like it is a "custom cell phone" module, probably providing an "optional" way to let people track your Slate. Doesn't mention if it can be turned on or off, so you can choose when to be tracked, or how hard it would be install/uninstall -- it looks like 3 screws for the physical install, not obvious about any electrical connections, nor where the item would be installed.

The ars technical article said the telematics unit is primarily targeted to fleet customers. I for one love that the base vehicle has no remote connectivity.

 

[Johnologue]

I saw the telematics module thing. Remote access, battery preconditioning, cellular bridge, etc.
I think the "service subscription" is referring to cellular service, in case people are worried. It does raise a lot of questions for me, but most are the curious kind.

 

[RevMS]

If it gave the kind of benefits as the Tesla Premium Connectivity Subscription (basically LTE internet for audio streaming underway) I'd take a close look at it.

 

[Johnologue]

If it gave the kind of benefits as the Tesla Premium Connectivity Subscription (basically LTE internet for audio streaming underway) I'd take a close look at it.

I strongly doubt it. This would be for the telematics function. Maybe they could reuse the cellular modem/signal for other systems, but Slate isn't a software company selling "digital experiences".

What does the Tesla thing even offer?
...
Netflix, Twitch, YouTube, games, GPS with traffic data?
Ah yeah, all of that is already included in the Slate's standard infotainment suite*.


*the Slate's standard infotainment suite is your phone/tablet running the Slate companion app.

 

[metroshot]

I am seriously considering getting the telematics module.

 

[ZuliMuli]

I am seriously considering getting the telematics module.

I am too, it was one of my biggest concerns with preconditioning and remote "start"

 

[GrizzlysGhost]

So, never having as an EV before, I'm still a bit muddy on some of this stuff. My situation; I live in NW Montana and we can have some pretty cold winters. I plan on keeping my slate in an insulated but non-heated shop, where I will just keep it plugged in to charge. I rarely drive 100 miles/week so slow charging is ok, but do I need to concern myself with this device to "preheat?" the batteries for a trip to the grocery store? Is it a "must-have" or more of a convenience?

 

[Tom Sawyer]

So, never having as an EV before, I'm still a bit muddy on some of this stuff. My situation; I live in NW Montana and we can have some pretty cold winters. I plan on keeping my slate in an insulated but non-heated shop, where I will just keep it plugged in to charge. I rarely drive 100 miles/week so slow charging is ok, but do I need to concern myself with this device to "preheat?" the batteries for a trip to the grocery store? Is it a "must-have" or more of a convenience?

Now the forum motto will be We'll know more as we get closer to delivery

 

[D’Roc]

I was wondering if they could get their app to interface with an OBD module either by bluetooth or WiFi. It wouldn’t help when the truck isn’t on but could likely really give a lot of good information on efficiency, temps, and state of health.

As far as remote start, couldn’t that be built into the keyfob like my 2013 Volt, that has no cellilar connectivity, which I can activate in my driveway from my house to precool or prewarm while plugged in?

 

[FlyHappy]

So, never having as an EV before, I'm still a bit muddy on some of this stuff. My situation; I live in NW Montana and we can have some pretty cold winters. I plan on keeping my slate in an insulated but non-heated shop, where I will just keep it plugged in to charge. I rarely drive 100 miles/week so slow charging is ok, but do I need to concern myself with this device to "preheat?" the batteries for a trip to the grocery store? Is it a "must-have" or more of a convenience?

Here's the good news:

battery preconditioning is most important when DC fast charging (L3) in cold weather - the battery must be warmed in order to accept a fast DC charge.

at home, using much slower AC (L1/L2) charging, these issues are mitigated, as you'll have the benefit of time as the onboard charger uses current from the wall to warm the battery and accept the charge.

no, your trip to the grocery store won't be an issue, unless the battery state is low and you need to charge before departure, and it is very cold.

we are not going to know until specifics about charge control is published or known from early deliveries. In other words, we hope and assume that the Slate will have enough onbard sophistication to self-manage the thermal issues in the worst of winter conditions (like most other modern, but more expensive EVs). In the worst case, maybe you (and I!) must trudge out to the car to tap something, telling it to "get ready" a bit ahead of time. The telematics module will only save us that cold trudge. It would also allow us to remotely instruct the vehicle to heat or cool the cabin, for our lazy comfort (I am making an assumption here, but its a pretty safe one).

I don't anticipate you to have any serious concern with your described lifestyle. If you do roadtrip, away from home, in the winter, then you may need to think about preconditioning.

side note: if you are able to get 240v, of any amperage in your shop, that will be far more efficient in the cold. You want this not for speed, you want this for charging efficiency. Even 240v @ 20a will be good.

 

[Kopsis]

do I need to concern myself with this device to "preheat?" the batteries for a trip to the grocery store? Is it a "must-have" or more of a convenience?

It's really just an efficiency thing. The idea is that you can turn on battery heating while you're still connected to the charger and not use any of your "range" bringing the battery up to temp. Aside from that there's really no benefit.

 

[RevMS]

It's really just an efficiency thing. The idea is that you can turn on battery heating while you're still connected to the charger and not use any of your "range" bringing the battery up to temp. Aside from that there's really no benefit.

Not only the battery temp, but the climate control (heat or A/C) can get the car ready before you take off and while you're connected to 240V.

 

[Rocks]

There is that fourth button on the remote. It has the circle+2x on it. Maybe that's the "prepare for launch" button.

Even the description of the replacement fob in the maker is vague.

Includes: One (1) key fob with an interchangeable end cap. Features: Locks/unlocks doors, pops the frunk, and includes a metal key insert as a backup. Fits all body styles.

 

[Supernintendo Chalmers]

I heard the fourth button was for remote start. No idea if it is, but that’s what the Red Line guy said.