Ford to put Internet phone in cars

The Internet made a big step towards conquering the automobile market as Ford Motor announced an alliance with Sprint PCS to offer mobile phones with Internet access in most Ford vehicles, beginning with 2001 Lincoln models that are due in show rooms in September.

The Ford-Sprint deal represents the first time Internet-capable phones will be factory-installed in automobiles. The voice-activated sets can also be removed from the vehicle and be carried around like a regular wireless phone. Sprint's wireless network will provide service for the new "Ford Rescu" system, a safety and concierge service similar to General Motors Corp.'s OnStar.