Chrysler's In-Vehicle Wi-Fi to Launch Aug. 25th

As I noted earlier, Chrysler was planning to add wi-fi to the list of distractions available in cars, in addition to text messaging / email, reading, putting on makeup, talking on cell phones, and the like. They've now announced that the increased distraction will begin on August 25th, when 2009 Chrysler models will be able to get this option.

Now, don't get me wrong; I'd love to be able to use something like this, but there are a couple of problems:

• Do we need still more distractions for drivers?
• I get carsick; this ain't gonna help (whether or not I am a passenger)
• Do we need more distrations for drivers? (oh, I asked that already)

uConnect Web, as its called, consists of a $499 Mopar car cellular modem / wi-fi router that has to be installed by the dealer as an option. There's a $35 - $50 installation fee, a $35 activation fee and a $29 (insert recurring pain here) monthly subscription fee.

So what you're doing is essentially the same as tethering your laptop to a cell phone (using it as a modem). Then using the router to create a hotspot around the car. Based on that, don't expect cable modem speeds. Of course, the field will extend 100 feet around the car, so I wonder if people will start driving closer to try to poach off a Chrysler's hotspot.

The router is made by Autonet Mobile and is similar to portable units already offered as $10.95-a-day rental add-ons in Avis Rent-a-Car models in major cities.

Obviously, U.S. car manufacturers need every gimmick they can get, but will it take off? Not likely. The one-time charge isn't that big, but $29 a month, when you're already paying for oh, say, your iPhone's data plan and more? Not something most people will opt for.

Which in our already overly connected / distracted society, is good news, as far as I am concerned.