Audi has announced that their new S3 Sportback will include the option for 4G-ready connectivity – with production already started as of yesterday.
However, this will not come cheap, as it will require MMI Navigation Plus as part of the technology package add-on, at a cost of £1495.
For that price, you're getting a central 7-inch touch display for navigation and control, 10GB of onboard storage for media, a DVD player and SD card readers.
You’ll also need to source a 4G SIM card from a network provider, as this isn’t included in the package.
Not only will the driver be able to connect their device to the car, passengers will be able to connect to the Internet in the car, creating a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) for all devices – such as tablet devices – so passengers can simultaneously browse the web whilst in the car.
Audi has also revealed that Facebook and Twitter have been made "vehicle friendly" with text-to-speech functions, so you can keep people posted on your status whilst driving, or when stuck in traffic.
Social media benefits aside, the data connection will supply information to the navigation system, like Google Earth and Google Street View information, provide traffic data, and come with web radio options. Drivers will be able to access fuel station locations, as well as getting parking and pricing details.
This technology could revolutionise travel for long distance commuters. It’ll be interesting to monitor the uptake on this package, especially at its current price, and also when it’s introduced across the Audi range.
It could spark the introduction of deals from network providers , as has been seen with 3G-enabled tablet devices and providers all potentially vying for the contracts. Other manufacturers will no doubt follow suit, with General Motors already stating their intention to roll out similar functionality across their manufacturer range by 2015.
Until the new Audis hit the UK market this November, there will be no way to get 4G connectivity in your car. However, instead of streaming music through a 4G ready car, AUX ports and Bluetooth are still viable connectivity options for car users, so check out our range of cars which have Bluetooth included.