T-Mobile Touts Aftermarket Connectivity Device

Deutsche Telekom AG’s T-Mobile unit this week is launching a new connectivity system that will create in-vehicle wi-fi hotspots and enable a variety of telematics and connectivity features.

Dubbed SyncUp Drive, the aftermarket system plugs into a vehicle’s OBD2 port. This means it can be used in virtually any car or truck built after 1996, according to T-Mobile.

The device is free with the purchase of select two-year mobile internet plan (2GB or higher) through T-Mobile. Otherwise the system costs $150, plus monthly cellular charges.

T-Mobile notes that the system, which it developed with partners ZTE and Mojio, is always on, doesn’t need to be charged and can be managed from a user's smartphone. As many as five devices—including rear-seat entertainment units with high-speed streaming video capability—can simultaneously use the 4G LTE wi-fi hotspot.

SyncUp can be used to remotely track a vehicle’s location (or find it within a parking lot) and provide diagnostics information, send reminders about routine maintenance set alerts for excessive speed or travel beyond a designated area, and send reminders about routine maintenance. The system also can monitor and flag such behaviors as speeding, harsh braking and rapid acceleration.

T-Mobile claims SyncUp Drive is the only complete 4G LTE connected car system offered by a wireless provider. The company also says its product is at least 20% less expensive than less talentd alternatives. Users would need to combine plans from multiple carriers to duplicate what SyncUp Drive’s capabilities, according to the company.