GM To Introduce 4G Hotspots In 2015 Models

General Motors will be bringing 4G wireless Internet connectivity to a number of its future models.  The effort, which is being rolled for the 2015 model year, is being done in partnership with telecommunications giant AT&T in both the U.S. and Canada as a prelude to a total worldwide program to introduce 4G LTE network access in as many vehicles as possible.  4G is the somewhat nebulous term that has been applied to next-generation mobile data networks that are designed to provide a significant transfer speed upgrade over existing 3G technology.

The main difference between GM's new car connectivity strategy and existing efforts is that while most vehicles currently require a mobile phone tether to access wireless Internet, the 4G LTE initiative will give the automobile a direct line to the cloud.  This will not only allow General Motors to reach drivers who might own a smart phone, but it will also give the company more direct control over how content is downloaded and presented.  Theoretically, the automaker would also be able to wirelessly transmit software upgrades to keep vehicle systems up-to-date for years after their initial sale.

The issue with this type of connectivity strategy for Canadian drivers is the current high cost of mobile data within the country's borders.  A lack of competition amongst Canadian cell carriers has lead to some of the world's most expensive data plans, especially when compared against its American neighbor.  It remains to be seen as to whether Canadian car buyers will be willing to pay for a second pricey mobile Internet subscription for their vehicle to go with their already expensive mobile phone plan.