Chevrolet has announced that owners of several new models can turn their rides in a mobile hot spot with Chevrolet Wi-Fi by Autonet Mobile . This option enables full Internet access inside the vehicle and up to a 150 feet radius around the vehicle.  Chevrolet Wi-Fi is designed for use by passengers, or by the driver when the vehicle is parked. The system requires no special software and achieves speeds up to 1.5 Mbps.  The Chevrolet Wi-Fi internet connection can support up to 10  devices at once, enabling multiple passengers to use the connection for their separate devices.

“Chevrolet Wi-Fi by Autonet Mobile enhances commuting, family vacations and work,” says Chris Rauser, Chevrolet Accessories Manager. “It benefits active families on the go, as well as professionals who need immediate information at remote job sites. Its uses are almost endless.” San Francisco-based Autonet Mobile  is the world’s first Internet service provider designed exclusively for vehicles. As a GM Officially Licensed Product, Chevrolet Wi-Fi by Autonet Mobile is certified to work with the following new Chevrolet models:

• Equinox
• Traverse
• Silverado
• Tahoe
• Suburban
• Avalanche
• Express

According to Autonet, the system uses 3G EVDO/2.5g 1xRRT wireless from Novatel Wireless for connectivity and its own patent-pending TRU technology to maintain Internet connections over the 3G network while the vehicle is in motion. TRU technology maintains the persistent link, even when 3G coverage is sparse. IEEE 802.11b-a-g provide data link protocols along with one built-in Ethernet LAN port provides wired connectivity. Its transport protocols include  PPTP, L2TP, IPSec and  PPPoE along with S NMP for remote management.  Security and access control are provided via  WEP/WPA/WPA2 encryption. Additional docking stations are available, enabling customers to easily move the Chevrolet Wi-Fi by Autonet Mobile router from vehicle to vehicle.

Through Dec. 31, Chevrolet Wi-Fi is available for $199 ($399 retail price, less $200 mail-in rebate with two-year service agreement). Go to GMextras.com for more information.

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Now a soccer-mom in her mini-van picking up Happy Meals will have more connectivity options than some of my clients.

Happy New Year