CES 2009: Turn your car into a rolling hotspot

Last summer, Chrysler announced its uconnect web service for Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep vehicles, which provides broadband access inside the vehicle. Well, you don’t have to buy a Chrysler to get this service. Autonet Mobile, the company behind Chrysler’s system, also sells it directly to consumers for installation in any vehicle.

The system sets up an in-car Wi-Fi network similar to those in homes and businesses, allowing users to connect to the Internet through laptops, smart phones, PDAs, etc. The car, itself, can’t connect to the Web directly, as happens in some telematics systems.

A router is professionally installed in a vehicle’s trunk or cargo area, which can connect to the Internet over various cellular data networks. When connected to the company’s 3G network, the router provides download speeds averaging 400 to 800 kbps and upload speeds ranging from 128 to 300 kbps. When not on the 3G network, the average speed drops to an average of 50 to 100 kbps, download, and 120 to 200 kbps, upload. Autonet Mobile’s 3G network is available in most major metro areas, as shown on the company's Web site.

The router also provides a range of about 100 to 150 feet, so you can connect when outside the car, as well.

The hardware retails for about $400 and the service starts at $29 per month. To get it, you can sign up through the company’s web site and it will direct you to the nearest dealer for installation. Alternately, the system is being sold through various auto dealerships, car audio shops, and retailers.

--Rik Paul