Automobile company Audi is planning to introduce the world’s first 4G LTE connected car next year, with the arrival of the Audi A3 sedan.
The Audi A3 models, which are scheduled to go on sale from Spring 2014 in the US, will provide faster downloads and high-definition video streaming for up to eight devices used by passengers.
The 4G LTE technology will offer picture navigation, social media and mobile app integration with access to more than 7,000 Web radio stations, the company said.
The Audi connect 4G LTE service will be powered by Qualcomm Technologies’ second generation LTE chipset, Qualcomm Gobi MDM 9215, which can facilitate downloads up to 100 Mbps.
The German company said the connectivity will also offer smoother Google Earth renderings and Google Street View features that come with Audi MMI navigation plus.
Scott Keogh, president at Audi of America, said: "Offering drivers a 4G LTE connection will provide the fastest in-vehicle connection available and significantly enhance the infotainment experience.
Audi said as 4G LTE becomes a standard for smartphones and other advanced mobile devices, the company will roll out 4G LTE connected capability across its entire lineup in future.
In the long term, Audi plans to use the broadband wireless data connection to access vast amounts of Big Data services, allowing drivers to communicate with smart infrastructure, parking garages and other connected cars.
