General Motors announced earlier today (Feb. 25, 2013) plans to install 4G LTE mobile broadband into most new General Motors cars, trucks and SUV's as early as mid-year 2014. GM will specifically first partner with AT&T to introduce the service and get the ball rolling, then introduce other broadband carriers into the mix as the program rolls out.
Expected benefits for GM customers include in-vehicle Wi-Fi hot spots, new infotainment options like streaming video entertainment in the back seat, real-time updates and faster application downloads. This all builds upon the backbone of General Motor's On Star program first implemented in 1996.
As part of the vehicle, the Wi-Fi hot spot will be hardwired into the vehicles electrical system, with a standard external antenna to maximize coverage for users.
The implications of this technology are endless. As GM opens the door to developers, a wide range of applications for drivers such as real time traffic conditions, navigation updates downloaded instantaneously and even communication with other vehicles are all in the realm of possibility.
For example,aftermarket vehicle security systems may soon be a thing of the past. Linking on-board cameras with mobile broadband can potentially enable an owner to monitor live the whereabouts and location of his vehicle at any exact moment. Potential safety enhancements with 4G LTE connectivity could include the ability to check a live streaming camera mounted on your vehicle when you’re away from the vehicle.
With safety in mind, Mary Chan, president of Global Connected Consumers for General Motors stated that,
"As we implement 4G LTE connectivity into our vehicles the most important piece we will consider is delivering this technology to our customers in a safe manner, staying focused on reducing any related distractions"
Information on pricing and options will be announced at a later date.
Source: General Motors
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