Chrysler announced a plan to turn its 2009 cars into hotspots. Bundled as part of the carmaker’s UConnect information and entertainment system, the service is called Uconnect Web and will allow Wi-Fi-enabled laptops and smartphones to connect to the Internet while on the go. The system uses cellular radios to connect to wireless networks and Wi-Fi to keep passengers connected to the Web.

Chrysler said it will begin offering UConnect Web in most 2009 Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep vehicles starting in August. The in-vehicle router will cost $449, plus up to $50 for installation; Mobile Web access run $29 a month, after a $35 activation fee through Autonet Mobile.

The carmaker said it’s first to bring such technology to market on a large scale and believes the benefits of the system will range from back-seat video and game entertainment for kids to keeping adults continually connected.

The system does not provide a safety to keep drivers from surfing the Web while the car is moving, but Chrysler said it will discourage unsafe use of the system.