GM Offers WiFi in Your Car

Apparently studies show that backseat DVD players are just as boring as books for the youth of America. So General Motors is making an Internet router available as a dealer-installed option on some selected vehicles throughout its Buick, Cadillac, GMC and Chevrolet lineup.

We’re talking about a device provided by Autonet Mobile of San Francisco that is able to create a hotspot that extends about 150 feet around the vehicle. This trick will allow you to go camping and still be able to update your Twitter status as you try to start a fire. Or search for tips on fishing.

The passengers can use laptop computers, game consoles, mobile phones or other potable devices, while the driver can use this connection to access online radio stations into the vehicle.

“Ninety percent of customers prefer surfing on the Internet over just watching movies,” said Sterling Pratz, CEO of Autonet Mobile. “Customers want the biggest brands the Internet has to offer in their car, such as Facebook, Youtube and FlyCast Internet radio.” So there you go, proof that social networking is setting a new law order.

Initially, this Internet access will be available only in GM’s vans, SUVs, crossovers and trucks - vehicles most likely to be used by families. The router will be on sale this month as a dealer offer or thru GM Accessories at www.gmextras.com. The retail price is $499 and the Internet access runs about $29 a month.

That’s a really small price to pay for keeping the kids quiet on the way to school and keeping your Facebook profile updated.