S Korea LG Elec To Provide Handset Systems For GM Cars

SEOUL November 13, 2003; Dow Jones reported that South Korea's LG Electronics Inc. Thursday said it will provide handset systems to allow telematic services in two General Motors Corp. car models.

The company didn't disclose the financial terms of the deal.

Telematics refers to automobile systems that combine Global Positioning System, or GPS, satellite tracking and wireless communications for automatic roadside assistance. General Motors was the first to popularize this service with its "OnStar" system.

LG said it will provide handset systems for General Motors' Buick Regal and Pontiac Grand Prix models.

LG's products will be installed in General Motors' cars as early as 2005, the South Korean company said.

The systems will allow air-bag deployment notification, stolen vehicle tracking, remote door unlock, personal calling, driving instructions and roadside assistance.

LG, which also provides such systems for Hyundai Motor Co. and Kia Motors Corp.'s vehicles, said it also aims to enter the European and Japanese markets.

In addition to handsets, LG makes a range of home appliances.