The Wall Street Journal reports the General Motors and Google are discussing a deal that would link cell phones using Google’s Android operating system with the automaker’s OnStar driver information service.  The Journal says that users of Android-based smartphones will likely be able to use OnStar features from their phone while not in their car.  One example, users could get information about their vehicle’s maintenance needs through the Android phone.

Owners of a Chevrolet Volt (GM’s upcoming plug-in electric vehicle) may be able to use the technology to help an owner keep track of the car’s battery charge from a distance, the paper said.  Partnerships like this are yet another indication of how electronics and in-car information systems are becoming of utmost importance  for carmakers.