Chrysler to Offer Web Access in Its Vehicles Starting in August

By Mike Ramsey

June 26 (Bloomberg) — Chrysler LLC said it will be the first automaker to provide Web access in vehicles when it begins offering Wi-Fi service through carrier Autonet Mobile Inc <http://www.autonetmobile.com/service> . in August.

Chrysler will charge $29 a month for the service and sell the equipment as a dealer-installed option for about $449, the Auburn Hills, Michigan-based automaker said today. Eventually, the company plans to build the device into production vehicles.

The automaker is hoping the innovation will help attract customers who are increasingly using their cars as work and entertainment centers. The base for the wireless connection will have a 100-foot radius and allow access for devices such as laptop computers, video-game consoles or personal digital assistants.

Autonet, which already provides a similar service for car- rental company Avis Budget Group Inc <http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/quote?ticker=CAR%3AUS> ., will offer 12-, 24- and 36-month contracts. The closely held company is based in San Francisco.

Chrysler disclosed plans to offer Web access in vehicles in March