Beginning this year with modifications to existing vehicles, Chrysler will be the first automaker to bring wifi Internet access to cars. (Later in the program, the capability will be added to new cars as a factory-installed item.) The system, not yet named, will utilize a connection to high-speed cellular data networks and will require the owner to have a mobile phone account. Presumably, Chrysler will forge a partnership relationship with one of the major cell phone companies to make the service available to drivers. (Currently data service plans with cell phone companies average around $40 a month.)

Although access is geared primarily for use by the vehicle’s passengers, a range of potential services will also be available to the driver, some while the car is in motion. In the company’s press release regarding the new connectivity, Chrysler mentioned:

Turn-by-turn navigation augmented by satellite images to create more realistic maps.

Wireless updates to map displays.

Weather and hazard information and alerts in real time.

Electronic service reminders for vehicle maintenance.

Updates to the vehicle’s systems via remote downloads.

The ability to search the Internet.

Purchases of music and movies online with the potential for streaming.

Transfer of video and audio files wirelessly from a home computer or laptop.

Email access with system capability for reading message aloud.

Sending of email messages through voice commands.

It should be noted, however, that the system is not promising constant access of consistent quality, factors that will depend on the availability and strength of a cellular signal. A possible issue in terms of infrastructure that will also effect the in-car wifi’s performance and ability to connect is the fact that the four major carriers in the United States all use different technologies for their broadband networks. Sprint and Verizon use EV-DO while AT&T and T-Mobile rely on 3G.

Although the complete details are unclear, Chrysler seems to be set on a track to completely redefine the function of a car’s radio. Frank Klegon, product development chief for the company, has been widely quoted saying, “We want to make the radio itself a wifi port.” (There are rumors that Chrysler is looking at the future role of WiMax technology in supplying connectivity for its cars.)

Regardless of the mechanics, however, it’s clear that Chrysler is taking the lead in putting the Internet on the American roadway, making it possible for the connected citizen to remain even more connected and possibly to have greater control over both his vehicle and the driving experience as a result. While the impact on driver safety has yet to be judged, it’s hard for technophile auto enthusiasts not to be excited at the prospect of being able to get online on long road trips or while stuck in traffic, an indication that other carmakers are sure to follow Chrysler in delivering in-car connectivity in the near future.

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