Chevrolet announced today that the majority of its 2015 lineup will offer a built-in 4G LTE connection. The optional Wi-Fi hotspot will allow passengers to connect smartphones, laptops, and tablets to high-speed wireless Internet on AT&T’s network.
“We know that our customers rely on being connected on a daily, if not hourly basis, and they expect to be provided with the information and content they desire with no interruptions,” says Mary Chan, president of GM’s Global Connected Consumer. “A 4G LTE hotspot that’s built into a car’s architecture will provide a more consistent and powerful Wi-Fi connection than a smartphone.”
The 2015 Chevrolet Corvette, Impala, Malibu, and Volt will be the first General Motors’ vehicles to come optionally equipped with OnStar 4G LTE, followed by the Equinox, Silverado, Silverado HD, Spark, and Spark EV. Alan Batey, senior vice president of Global Chevrolet, says it will be the broadest deployment of 4G LTE in the automotive industry.
“The fact that OnStar with 4G LTE will be available in models that range from the Chevrolet Spark to the Silverado to the Corvette, is indicative of our broad commitment to deliver more value and convenience through smart technology applications,” Batey says. “This new, purposeful technology solution will make our consumers lives easier to connect.”
Current AT&T customers will be able to add their vehicle to a shareable packet of data through AT&T Mobile Share plans. Drivers can also pay for data as a standalone option. Additional pricing and data packages for OnStar 4G LTE will be announced later this year.
The automaker also says select Chevrolet models will also include a built-in AppShop. Accessible through an icon on the MyLink screen, the program allows owners to download apps directly to a vehicle.
“The built-in 4G LTE connection will allow our vehicles to be updated with the latest software and apps,” Chan says. “This means that the driver’s vehicle infotainment systems can keep getting better after purchase as customers can continue to add on and customize their features.”
An initial list of planned apps announced today includes Vehicle Health, iHeartRadio, Priceline.com, The Weather Channel, NPR, Slacker Radio, TuneIn Radio, Cityseeker, Eventseeker, Glympse, and Kaliki.
