Chrysler's Mobile TV (Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep)

By Michael Silbergleid

Chrysler released the following press release on March 4 regarding it’s live Mobile TV offerings:

Chrysler Group LLC is the first automaker in the United States to offer live, mobile TV to consumers. The system offers something for everyone: college and professional sports, breaking news, children’s shows, primetime sitcoms, reality TV and daytime dramas.

“We are the first automaker in the United States to offer live, mobile TV in more than 100 metropolitan markets,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and Chief Executive Officer – Mopar Service, Parts and Customer Care, Chrysler Group LLC. “Live, mobile TV gives our customers the ultimate in entertainment and it’s a great example of how Mopar adds value to our Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram brands.

“With Mopar’s wide range of options and accessories, customers may customize their vehicles to fit their needs and aspirations,” Gorlier added. “In addition to accessories, Mopar also supports each brand with excellent customer service, enhanced with cutting-edge service-tool technology including wireless diagnostic.”

Until now, the challenge for mobile TV has been to deliver high-quality, uninterrupted coverage in urban environments and at highway speeds. Existing mobile TV systems in the United States either offer limited channels or require larger satellite dishes on vehicle roofs – and a large price tag to match.

Mopar’s suggested retail price is $629, plus installation. A one-year pre-paid subscription is included with installation.

The entertainment package is available as a dealer-installed option on the following 2008-2010 model-year vehicles with factory DVD entertainment systems: Chrysler Town & Country, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Commander, Dodge Grand Caravan, Dodge Journey, Dodge Nitro, Ram 1500 and Ram 2500/3500.

The service also may be added to select 2008-2010 model-year vehicles when new Mopar headrests or seat-top DVD entertainment systems are purchased.

How it Works

Television signals are delivered through a dedicated multicast network built by San Diego-based FLO(TM) TV Inc., a live, mobile TV service provider, and a wholly owned subsidiary of Qualcomm Inc. FLO TV offers live and time-shifted programming from top entertainment brands.

The service is available in more than 100 major markets and many interstate driving corridors, however it is not available in some rural areas.

Audiovox Corp., of Hauppauge, NY, supplies FLO TV Auto Entertainment hardware that integrates with Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram vehicles’ existing entertainment systems and new Mopar 7-inch DVD screen systems. A small antenna, similar in size to a laptop mouse, is mounted on a vehicle’s roof to deliver the digital TV signal. Inside the vehicle, the receiver and wiring are installed under the interior trim of the vehicle and are not visible to occupants.

User-friendly wired and wireless remote controls allow viewers to easily surf channels, similar to TV systems at home.

Mopar’s live, mobile TV option includes a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty on new vehicles or a 12-month/12,000-mile warranty on used vehicles for hardware and installation.