Even before we’d tried it, Chevrolet’s awesome audio/video/telemetry-recording Performance Data Recorder option for the 2015 Chevrolet Corvette and Corvette Z06 had us smitten. Then we tested it out and became even more enamored. Now, Chevrolet has announced an enhanced Valet Mode functionality for PDR that should placate anyone who’s ever seen their blood pressure rise and had gray hairs sprout at the mere sight of a valet stand.
The Corvette already had a comprehensive Valet Mode, which locked the glove box and center-console cubby and nixed the radio when a special code was punched into the infotainment display. For the 2015 Corvette and Corvette Z06, Chevy has enhanced the Valet Mode’s capabilities on cars equipped with the optional, new Performance Data Recorder. On those cars, activating Valet Mode not only locks the interior storage bins and darkens the radio, but also lets drivers hit the “record” button on PDR. The system will record video through the forward-facing HD camera mounted ahead of the rearview mirror, log audio, and also take note of telemetry data such as speed, rpm, gear choice, and g-forces. Owners can watch the action—or, hopefully, the non-action—later on the car’s 8-inch touch screen or download the data to their computer.
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Although Valet Mode is standard on all 2015 Corvettes, the PDR-enhanced version only comes on, well, PDR-equipped Vettes. Chevrolet tells us the Performance Data Recorder will be bundled with the Vette’s navigation option, and it will be available on all Corvette models. Final pricing for the 2015 Corvette is forthcoming, but PDR isn’t expected to add much to the price of the navigation option.
Of course, recording the valets’ actions is clever, but not every parker will be up-to-date on GM’s latest Valet Mode tricks, so we’d suggest giving whoever’s taking your Corvette’s keys a quick heads-up (and the four-digit code). Don’t worry, in this case, knowledge is not power. Valet Mode locks the glove box—meaning the valet won’t have access to the Performance Data Recorder’s 8-gigabyte SD card to erase any proof of their Ferris Bueller’s Day Off–style joyride.
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