I posted this in the 7 forum and think it's worthy of discussion like on other auto forums this week:

Here's the story from this week's Autoweek issue (http://www.autoweek.com/article.cms?articleId=101136). It's a long read but if you're concerned about EDR(Electronic Data Recovery) I think you should take notice, especially the current manufacturers who employ the system and what capabilities they currently have and the legal standpoint, pro and con.

Rental car companies already use GPS/EDR's to locate and monitor "their property". They also use it to fine you if you violate vehicle laws(WTF?). Trust me on this one, as I was warned for doing 80mph across the Texas Plains. :mad:

*Edit* The list of manufacturers using the technology is suspiciously missing from the website, unlike the print copy.

heheh Toad got owned by the rental car police:)

They don't enforce. Yet. Just a "reminder" printout of date, elapsed time and speed. They didnt show the GPS Data as it would be too intrusive right now. Just a primer to get renters used to the idea that Big Brother Hertz(FoMoCo), National, and Avis is watching their rent-a-wreck for abuse. I saw the tiny black GPS antenna on the roof and coax goin to the inside mirror, and wanted to evaluate it's umm...effectiveness. :)

They don't enforce. Yet. Just a "reminder" printout of date, elapsed time and speed. They didnt show the GPS Data as it would be too intrusive right now. Just a primer to get renters used to the idea that Big Brother Hertz(FoMoCo), National, and Avis is watching their rent-a-wreck for abuse. I saw the tiny black GPS antenna on the roof and coax goin to the inside mirror, and wanted to evaluate it's umm...effectiveness. :)

Wrap the antenna or coax with foil and see if it.. foils them! ahaha..

that was lame.. but it should work.