The SXSW festival in Austin has grown to include a wide range of music, technology and other forms of entertainment, and that includes automakers. General Motors was on hand at the festival to show off a new concept of its electric Chevrolet Volt that utilizes 4G technology to deliver a number of different entertainment options for passengers.
The Volt 4G features two modified Samsung Galaxy Tab computers mounted to the back of the front seats, much like the DVD player monitors found in high-end minivans and SUVs. The car itself can connect to 4G networks, allowing the passengers to use the computers in order to browse the internet, stream movies from Netflix and Hulu and listen to music. They can also perform offline tasks like play games and use a variety of different apps.
The idea was developed by GM subsidiary OnStar, which was once mainly known for roadside assistance but now handles in-car connectivity for the automaker. OnStar vice president Vijay Iyer told USA Today that 4G vehicles are still a few years away, but the technology is feasible.
Whether you have the very latest technological wonder in your garage or have been driving the same car for years, it's important to keep up with auto maintenance.