Ford Joins GM in Fulfilling Drivers’ Data-Consumption Needs

With mobile being the current preoccupation of engineers, technology companies, and consumers, it seems sensible that cars are the next frontier. After all, what could be more mobile than an automobile with wireless internet connectivity?

America’s largest car manufacturers have realized the benefits that web capabilities will give their vehicles; not only will their cars be smarter — with the Internet connection providing drivers in-car diagnostics for mechanical problems, maintenance checks, and more-accurate traffic data at the touch of a finger — but passengers will also have access to a wider range of entertainment options.

However, Ford (NYSE:F) and General Motors (NYSE:GM) are pursuing slightly different routes to Internet connectivity.

On Monday, GM announced that it would be partnering with AT&T (NYSE:T) to fulfill drivers’ data-consumption needs on the road, a service that will be available in the manufacturer’s 2015 Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and Cadillac automobiles with an annual charge of $299.

AT&T, which upset Verizon (NYSE:VZ) for the GM contract, has called the connected car a “billion dollar business” in terms of revenue, according to Forbes. Glenn Lurie, emerging devices president at AT&T, told the publication that “a few years ago we were the first to carry the iPhone and we didn’t know we were going to be here today,” indicating that the company believes that its deal with the car manufacturer has significance for AT&T’s future as a top wireless carrier similar to its partnership with Apple…