Chrysler has announced that it will make available, as part of its "UConnect" strategy, 3G and Wi-Fi capabilities to buyers of its vehicles. The UConnect Web service will allegedly be available as an option on all its 2009 model year vehicles. It's quite clear that you will have to pay a subscription fee too to use the service, which might be payable yearly rather than monthly as most ISPs charge.

The option appears to be a 3G-to-WiFi router which connects to the Internet through the 3G network using a cellular-based signal and then relays data to consumer devices through Wi-Fi. Apparently, the service will provide download speeds of 600 to 800 kilobits per second and upload speeds of 200 kilobits.

Critics have already seen the dangers to public safety. As it weren't enough irresponsible drivers who babble on the cellphone while driving or text their mates, now we shall have people who browse the Internet while driving. Chrysler alleges that the Internet connection is to be used by the driver only when the car is parked, and in motion by passengers only. But we all know that's not going to happen.

The Chrysler system also has navigation and real-time traffic features, controlled by voice recognition or a touch screen. Ford has a somewhat similar offer, Sync, which only allows Bluetooth connectivity and MP3 player integration with the car’s stereo.