Cadillac Gets In-Car Wi-Fi

Filed in archive Wi-Fi on March 20, 2009

GM this week announced plans to equip the Cadillac CTS Sports Sedan with Wi-Fi Internet access from Autonet Mobile, branded as Cadillac WiFi by Autonet Mobile (apparently, they're unable to spell Wi-Fi correctly). The new offering will be on display next month at the New York International Auto Show.

Autonet Mobile already has an agreement with Chrysler — but, as Engadget's Darren Murph notes, "The agreement is a first for Caddy, and also the first luxury brand that Autonet Mobile has managed to invade."

"Consumer demand is growing for new features that will enhance a digital lifestyle while on the go," says Mark McNabb, Cadillac's North America Vice President. "Today, they are frequently searching for Wi-Fi access wherever they may be."

"There is some concern that within a few years this technology will be useless, once 3G and 4G cell phone networks and devices are more readily available, cheaper and more reliable," warns SlashGear's Brenda Stokes. "But for now, it's still pretty cool."

"Companies in the emerging in-car Internet space will soon need to bring more to the party than just Wi-Fi and some 3G network massaging," agrees CNET's Brian Cooley. "They'll need to bundle and optimize services for in-car user, as well as develop car-specific interfaces, and deliver both in a way that speaks to two major use cases: driver and passenger."

The dealer-installed option will cost $499, with monthly subscriptions starting at $29.

More here from TWICE ... more here from Electronista ... more here from Gadling ... more here from Wi-Fi Net News ... more here from AutoGuide ... GM's press release is here ... and Autonet's press release is here.