Autoblog

2012 Chevrolet Silverado gets slight redesign, WiFi and White Diamond Edition

Zach Bowman — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 14:29:00 EST

Filed under: Truck, Work, Chevrolet, GM, Off-Road

General Motors has quietly rolled out a mild refresh for the 2012 Chevrolet Silverado. Buyers who lay down the cash for the new pickup will enjoy a slightly reworked nose complete with a chrome mesh grille with a chrome surround on LS and LT trims, and two-wheel drive trucks will feature an aerodynamic front bumper without tow hooks. LTZ trim level pickups will boast a body-color surround, and 20-inch wheels are now available, as well. For 2012, every Silverado with the exception of the Hybrid will come standard with trailer sway control and hill-start assist for a little more functionality and safety.

GM is also throwing in a new optional hard-drive based navigation radio with updated graphics. We'll be interested to see how that new tech stacks up against the somewhat dated system in the 2011 model, though the new optional WiFi system will go a long way with those who use their truck as a mobile office. Unfortunately, it looks like the Silverado will continue on with its long-in-the-tooth interior for at least another year, though GM is offering a White Diamond equipment package on LT and LTZ trim trucks to class up the exterior.

The package includes tri-coat exterior paint, a smattering of chrome all over the exterior as well as Z60 high-performance suspension bits on LTZ trims. Those big 20-inch rollers are also part of the party. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading 2012 Chevrolet Silverado gets slight redesign, WiFi and White Diamond Edition

2012 Chevrolet Silverado gets slight redesign, WiFi and White Diamond Edition originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Aug 2011 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Judge says Google can be held liable in Street View wi-fi security debacle

Jeff Glucker — Fri, 01 Jul 2011 10:28:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Government/Legal

It's a good thing for Google that have all of the money in the world. A federal judge has announced that the Silicon Valley giant can be sued for any damages related to the data grabbed by its Street View cars. As you may recall, earlier this year, it was determined that when the mapping machines passed by areas with unsecured WiFi networks, the hardware mounted on top of the roofs was inadvertently able to snag passwords, emails and a whole host of other information that was unknowingly ripe for the picking.

According to Wired, Google is going on the defensive and claims that unsecured WiFi networks are akin to radio communications. Anyone can grab a radio signal out there, and Google believes grabbing onto an open network is similar. Google has also stated that it was initially unaware of the data being snatched up by its roving fleet.

The implications from this case could prove very interesting for both Google and anyone using an unsecured WiFi network. We'll bring you updates as the story develops, and we'll be sure to change the password on the Autoblog router. (ProTip: Don't go with #12345, even if it matches the combination on your luggage).

Judge says Google can be held liable in Street View wi-fi security debacle originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Jul 2011 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ford Focus adds on-board WiFi in Europe

Noah Joseph — Tue, 03 May 2011 16:02:00 EST

Filed under: Europe, Technology, Ford, UK

Ford SYNC Mobile WiFi Hotspot - Click above for high-res image gallery

You might figure that, with a name like Focus, Ford's compact model would be all about eliminating distractions. But the new global Focus is jam-packed with technology, and the latest among them is a new in-car WiFi system.

The device works with SYNC and MyFord Touch to pick up the signal from a mobile internet dongle or smartphone and share it with as many as five additional devices in the car. This should come in handy for road trips and traveling salesmen, but we hope drivers will be able to stayed focused while behind the wheel.

One way or another, the system appears to be available - at least initially - only overseas in European markets, but we'll be keeping an eye out for its introduction in the United Sates, as well. In the meantime you can follow the jump to scope out the full details in the press release from Ford's British subsidiary.

Gallery: Ford SYNC Mobile WiFi Hotspot

Continue reading Ford Focus adds on-board WiFi in Europe

Ford Focus adds on-board WiFi in Europe originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 May 2011 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2011 Subaru Outback adds in-car Wi-Fi

Jonathon Ramsey — Sat, 17 Jul 2010 15:38:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, SUV, Technology, Subaru

2010 Subaru Outback - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ford's SYNC does 3G WiFi, and with the help of Autonet so do GM, Chrysler, Avis, some school buses and now Subaru. The Japanese automaker has put WiFi on the options list of the 2011 Subaru Outback for the pretty standard price of $499 as a dealer-installed option. That'll get you an encrypted connection good within 150 feet of the car, and it can be used while the car is in motion. The subscription is $29 per month after that, and Subaru is gracious enough to pick up the first three months for you. Follow the jump for the full press release.

Gallery: Review: 2010 Subaru Outback

[Source: Subaru]

Continue reading 2011 Subaru Outback adds in-car Wi-Fi

2011 Subaru Outback adds in-car Wi-Fi originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 17 Jul 2010 15:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2011 Audi A8 available with factory-installed wireless internet hotspot

Steven J. Ewing — Mon, 24 May 2010 08:31:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Technology, Audi, Luxury

2011 Audi A8 - Click above for high-res image gallery

One day, we'll be able to have wireless internet access from nearly every point on the globe. And while many cities and towns are making efforts to offer free wireless service across a broad range, automakers are now looking to bring WiFi connectivity to cars. Audi is on board, and it has just announced that the 2011 A8 will be available with factory-installed in-car wireless hotspot.

The WLAN hotspot is located within the rooftop antenna, and passengers can connect to the internet via any laptop, netbook or new-age tablet, like the Apple iPad. Audi says that the network is capable of speeds up to 7.2 Mbit/sec and that WAP2 encryption is on hand in order to securely transfer data. Audi claims that this is the first such factory-installed system, although other automakers offer WiFi connectivity with dealer installed accessories.

The new A8 is already packed to the brim with the latest and greatest in automotive technological achievements. Things like the automaker's second-generation MMI control interface, the integration of Google Earth and an impressive LED lighting system up front set it apart from other vehicles in the class, and the addition of wireless internet will only strengthen the appeal to prospective buyers. The full details are available in Audi's press release, after the jump.

Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Audi A8

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading 2011 Audi A8 available with factory-installed wireless internet hotspot

2011 Audi A8 available with factory-installed wireless internet hotspot originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 May 2010 08:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Volvo unveils touchscreen rear entertainment with 500GB and WiFi

Jonathon Ramsey — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 10:01:00 EST

Filed under: Chicago Auto Show, Technology, Volvo

In-car entertainment turned it up another wireless notch at last week's Chicago Auto Show when Volvo showed off "the industry's first Internet connected Rear Seat Entertainment System with Windows XP, WiFi and a 500G hard drive."

Officially, it remains a test-bed study for the moment, but the idea is that you can do everything on a rear headrest touchscreen that you can do on your home computer. You can also plug your computer into the car and load the XC70's system with your own music and video to keep things quiet in the back row. While it's officially only in the 'conceptual phase,' we have it on very good authority that the system will be available in 2011 Volvo XC60 and XC70 models beginning this summer.

Follow the jump for Volvo's take on the RSEi-500 setup, and be sure to get ready for Geneva, where Volvo will reveal an XC90 with a crappy rolling chair, a cubicle and a water cooler.

[Source: Volvo]

Continue reading Volvo unveils touchscreen rear entertainment with 500GB and WiFi

Volvo unveils touchscreen rear entertainment with 500GB and WiFi originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Feb 2010 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fast Connection: Cadillac adds WiFi to CTS options list

Chris Paukert — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 10:27:00 EST

Filed under: Gadgets, Sedan, Performance, Technology, Cadillac

Perhaps as part of a thoughtful move to combine two of the major aspects of the Autoblog lifestyle, Cadillac has just announced that it will offer full WiFi access in its CTS sport sedan beginning next month.

The dealer-installed option will cost $499, and Cadillac says the Autonet Mobile system will effectively turn the CTS into a 3G hotspot with speeds of up to 800Kbps. Naturally, there's a monthly charge associated with the service, but $29 a month for a stylish, leather-lined mobile command center doesn't strike us as too bad of a deal, especially when the WiFi is capable of handling multiple devices simultaneously. No word yet on whether existing CTS owners can retrofit their cars, but considering this is a dealer-installed add-on, we imagine it's possible. If not, there's always the aftermarket.

Now, if we could only get Cadillac to consider fitting a Nespresso machine, we'd have all the tools of the trade!

Continue reading Fast Connection: Cadillac adds WiFi to CTS options list

Fast Connection: Cadillac adds WiFi to CTS options list originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Mar 2009 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Delphi and Autonet partnering to bring mobile internet to the masses

Sam Abuelsamid — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 18:28:00 EST

Filed under: I.C.E., Technology

One of the highlights of the recent Audi Mileage Marathon for participating journalists was the in-car internet connectivity. The Q7s and other vehicles used in the marathon were equipped with a Cradlepoint mobile WiFi router and USB wireless broadband adapter. We were able to open up our laptops (when we were in the passenger seat, of course!) and connect to the net to write our stories while on the go.

Delphi is now teaming up Autonet mobile to market in-car internet their connectivity products. Autonet is the company providing the in-car WiFi uConnect system that will become available from Chrysler dealers this fall. That unit is basically a standard WiFi router with a broadband adapter installed inside the box. The Delphi-Autonet partnership will take this technology and go a few steps further to add a variety of telematics services as well as improving the robustness of the systems. One of the issues that automotive engineers have to deal with on modern cars is radio frequency interference. Delphi will be using its experience in automotive electronics to help Autonet harden its systems and meet the requirements of carmakers for factory installation.

[Source: Autonet Mobile]

Continue reading Delphi and Autonet partnering to bring mobile internet to the masses

Delphi and Autonet partnering to bring mobile internet to the masses originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Nov 2008 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chrysler offering in-car web access later this year

Chris Shunk — Sun, 23 Mar 2008 10:33:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Technology, Chrysler, Dodge

Chrysler may be struggling with vehicle styling and interior quality, but the gang in Auburn Hills sure does love the gadgetry. Sirius satellite TV, heated and cooled cupholders, and Swivel-N-Go seating will soon be joined by in-car Internet access. The Washington Post reports Chrysler will utilize cell tower signals and a mobile phone account to make the radio a WiFi port, giving passengers access to the web. The technology will be offered as a dealer add-on for existing models later this year, and it will be available as a factory option at some point after that. With Chrysler bringing web connectivity to cars and trucks this year and Ford following suit in mid-2009, it looks like access to Autoblog will soon be available everywhere.

[Source: The Washington Post]

Chrysler offering in-car web access later this year originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 23 Mar 2008 10:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Avis to offer internet in cars for $10.95/day

Erin Mays — Tue, 22 May 2007 14:28:00 EST

Filed under: Gadgets, Technology, First Drives

Avis is still trying harder, this time offering internet in its rental fleet for $10.95 a day. Called Avis Connect, the service is launching at San Francisco International Airport and will come on line at airports in San Jose, Oakland, Los Angeles and Newark, with airport locations in Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Miami, New York, San Diego and Seattle later this year.

Autonet Mobile is the ringleader behind the effort, developing the system exclusively for Avis. Anything that would hook up to a WiFi network is compatible with the system, making it easy to use laptops from the comfort of the Avis rental to access e-mail, games, music, etc. without a need for a cellular chip or other satellite-based card.

While $10.95 may not sound cheap, it's not uncommon for hotels and some cafes (cough-Starbucks-cough) to charge about that much anyway, and really, how much time do you spend in your hotel room?

Full press release from Avis after the jump.

[via Engadget]

Continue reading Avis to offer internet in cars for $10.95/day

Avis to offer internet in cars for $10.95/day originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 May 2007 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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AutoNet Mobile rocking wi-fi in your car

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 02 Jan 2007 08:27:00 EST

Filed under: Gadgets, I.C.E., Technology

For those of you confined to a movable cubicle, having a wireless internet connection within your mobile office would be a Godsend. Autonet has recognized this need and developed, what the company maintains is, the first in-car ISP, allowing any wireless devices within your vehicle to be hooked up the World Wide Web. The unit will set you back $399 and a monthly fee of $50 will hook you up with Verizon's EV-DO network. Initially, the product will be launched in the spring of 2007 in AVIS rental vehicles for $10.95 per day and, according to the company, will function on 95-percent of roadways within the U.S.

[Source: Engadget, NYTimes]

AutoNet Mobile rocking wi-fi in your car originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Jan 2007 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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