3Com (Iberia) Corporations together with Italian car manufacturer Fiat Auto, today announced a new concept of vehicle that embeds enterprise-class wireless networking technology from 3Com into the car, enabling passengers to connect with high-speed access to the Internet offered by service stations, car parks or urban environments equipped with wireless `hot-spots`.
The WiFi system installed in the Lancia Phedra, first seen at Diva 2003, offers broadband Internet access via the vehicle`s multimedia system, with the same level of functionality as provided in the office or home. The 3Com advanced WiFi connectivity solution is augmented by AWAutoPC with a wireless keyboard, developed by AWA, a partner of 3Com.
"3Com`s affordable and easy-to-use WiFi innovations are opening up new wireless frontiers such as shopping on the Internet, checking the stock market or participating in a video conference from the backseat of a car," said Marcelo Peuriot, country manager, 3Com Iberia. "The proliferation of new wireless hotspots, coupled with new initiatives by garages and service stations, creates an exciting market for offering interactive services and content delivery to users while on the move."
WiFi technology is not only used to connect the vehicle to wireless stations or hotspots but also to create a wireless LAN inside the car so passengers can connect to the Internet or exchange files and gain access to different applications such as wireless video security, traffic information or roadmaps.
"The automobile industry is one of the first markets introducing these new technologies with the aim of making the passenger experience more comfortable and enjoyable," said Claudio San Pedro, country manager, Fiat Auto Espa~na, S.A. "Adding 3Com`s WiFi technology to vehicles creates amazing opportunities for both the business or consumer user. Because we recognise the great popularity of wireless technology, we have equipped our Lancia Phedra car with a Wi-Fi system to show its applications and advantages."
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3Com is a tier-one provider of innovative, practical and high-value networking products for enterprises of all sizes and public sector organizations. 3Com is also a leader in providing Internet protocol (IP) service platforms and access infrastructure for network service providers. For further information, please visit www.3com.com, or the press site www.3com.com/pressbox.
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