Chevy Corvette 'Valet Mode' May Be Illegal
Using a new technology feature on the 2015 Chevrolet Corvette might end up getting you into trouble.
The American automaker is requesting its dealers to tell customers not to use the Chevrolet Corvette’s “valet mode” on the car’s performance data recorder as it could inadvertently get owners in trouble with the law. Chevy is currently working on a software update that is expected to be available early next month to ensure customers will be in compliance with the law pertaining to audio recording devices. The problem relates to laws in 12 states including California and Michigan, which ban audio recording of private conversations unless all involved parties provide their consent.
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The valet mode has been touted as “a baby monitor for your baby,” which refers to the Corvette Stingray. The system allows owners to record audio, video and vehicle data when handing the keys over to a parking attendant or valet. It’s currently unclear how the update will address legal concerns but it is likely through a message warning that the car is recording audio and/or video. The company could also remove the capability to record altogether.
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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uhh....doesn't this fall more into the "security camera w/ audio recording" category and is therefore totally legal? I can put security cameras with microphones in a business and record all day without their consent, so long as there's a little sign that says that there's security system
Why not simply tell owners in the manual (yeah, I know, the one nobody reads) that in states that require all-party consent, you have to notify the valet? It's not like they can really refuse once you're at the parking lot. And if that opens the way toward valet companies posting signs saying their valets are not require to consent to recording, then execute a fallback plan: a "Valet Mode" that also drops the car's maximum speed to 30 mph.