Progressive is now using GPS tracking devices on vehicles to monitor driving in exchange for discounts. The pilot program, dubbed Snapshot, illustrates a growing trend among consumer tracking. With many consumers already using GPS-enabled phones, there’s dwindling concern about what information Big Brother might obtain.
The company plans to see if the information gathered during the test program will be useful in assessing insurance rates, although some wonder if it might lead to more expensive coverage for those who drive, work, or live in neighborhoods with higher crime rates despite reassurance from Progressive that the program is strictly to reward drivers.
Progressive Project Management Office Leader, Steven Broz, said the company began shipping GPS-enabled devices to drivers in April. Progressive employees tested the GPS devices prior to consumer use.