General Motors Now Offering Wi-Fi Hotspot in Select Vehicles

An Internet router is now available as a dealer-installed option through General Motors on select new vehicles, including Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC and Buick brands. For now, the router is a dealer-installed option available only in General Motor’s vehicles most likely to be used by families -- SUVs, vans, trucks and crossovers.

The router is made by Autonet Mobile of San Francisco and comes with a docking station so that it can be easily moved from one vehicle to another. The routers and accessories are also supplied to Chrysler and Volkswagen through Autonet Mobile.

The Internet router creates a Wi-Fi hotspot in and around the vehicle, for up to 150 feet, so that passengers can use laptops, smart phones and other portable devices to connect to the internet while on the road. This Internet connection also allows the driver to listen to streaming Internet radio stations. Small businesses can also stay connected through the use of the mobile Internet router.

Sterling Pratz, the CEO of Autonet Mobile gave a statement saying that, “Ninety percent of customers prefer surfing the Internet over just watching movies. Customers want the biggest brands the Internet has to offer in their car, such as FaceBook, YouTube and FlyCast Internet radio.”

With the Autonet Internet router in your GM vehicle you can check email, listen to Internet radio or surf the web. Book a hotel or find the best place to eat in a new city while on your next business trip or family vacation. There is no waiting to find a Wi-Fi hotspot at a café or fast food restaurant. The router is capable of connecting 10 or more people using multiple devices and works with any Wi-Fi device, including gaming systems.

There is a monthly charge for use of the Internet service along with a service agreement and contract, but there are no overages, roaming charges or surcharges associated with the service. The Autonet Internet router is being installed on certain GM model vehicles now and could be installed in other vehicles at a later time. The Internet router and docking station are also available for purchase from specific GM accessories shops.