Technology creep is steadily taking over automobiles. We now have everything ranging from iPod integration to satellite navigation to self-steering and automated parking systems to adaptive cruise control. GM is now looking to give the lowly key fob a makeover worthy of today's technology-craved society.

The remote control key fob not only has your standard features like lock/unlock and panic buttons, but it can also monitor tire pressure at each wheel, display the odometer and fuel levels and even check the status of the door locks. Information is displayed on an LCD screen that shows a mini-diagram of key vehicle components. From USA Today:

The feature builds on GM's expertise as the first automaker to introduce remote start, which made its debut in the 2004 Chevrolet Malibu and now is available from other automakers and as an add-on accessory.GM says it will be first to offer remote two-way communication with the vehicle using a liquid-crystal display on the fob. The fob will operate at four to six times the range of competitors' keyless entry systems, GM says.

The key fob, which will be a $150 option on GM SUVs, crossovers and pickups in spring of next year, is quite durable and can survive being submersed in water as well as being dropped onto hard surfaces.