Audi to offer Mobile Internet on New A8
Tuesday, May 25th, 2010Amidst clamor to make texting while driving illegal nationwide, carmakers are coming up with new and innovative ways to keep road warriors as plugged in as possible. Car and Driver reports on the latest automaker to join the trend: The new Audi A8’s tech package will include an optional accessory offering mobile internet acces for passengers. Up to eight devices will have access to WiFi connections, and WPA2 encryption will be in place to ensure that data stays private.
In order to connect, passengers must posses a SIM card with a data plan, or a Bluetooth-enabled phone that is capable of being tethered to the car’s “infotainment” system. Audi is not charging any fees, so the only cost, other than the price to add the accessory, is whatever your wireless carrier charges for the use of data.
Audi has yet to determine availability and pricing for the system here in the United States, but representatives of the company say that the mobile internet option will likely be offered on American models.
For those who feel the Audi A8’s pricetag is a bit steep, but still want to keep the ‘net at their fingertips while traveling, mobile internet solutions have been built into the latest version of Ford Sync, and are available via dealer-installed accessories in the Cadillac CTS and various Chrysler vehicles.
According to the folks at Audi, details about the system’s U.S. availability and pricing have yet to be determined. However, they say the mobile internet option will very likely be offered on American A8s.
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