Bentley Touts High-Speed Wi-Fi Capability

Volkswagen AG’s Bentley unit claims its new Advanced Connectivity wi-fi system will provide the world’s fastest, most reliable and secure in-vehicle internet service.

The system will enable uninterrupted mobile network coverage at vehicle speeds as high as 70 mph, according to the carmaker. This will allow passengers to access multiple business and entertainment applications simultaneously, including high-definition video streaming.

Bentley is teaming up with communications giant Viasat Inc. on the project. The partners describe the technology as a multi-channel virtual private network that can aggregate three mobile network operators on a single signal.

The router is installed in the car’s trunk, where it connects to the vehicle’s DC power supply. The router picks up its network signal from a fixed-site broadband hub, which connects to the various mobile networks.

In-vehicle users can access the connection via a smartphone application. Bentley envisions the system being used for video conferences, downloading large files, share presentations, access to virtual office applications and streaming high-definition movies.

The option will be available on every new Bentley vehicle next year. Pricing hasn’t been announced.

Carlsbad, Calif.-based Viasat operates 14 million wi-fi hotspots worldwide. The company helped pioneer in-flight wi-fi and recently expanded into satellite internet service.