Ericsson Rolls Out First Wi-Fi on Wheels

NEW YORK -- Today at the Internet & Television Expo 2016 (INTX) in Boston, Ericsson (NASDAQ:ERIC) wheeled out the nation's first high-tech mobile Wi-Fi unit that will potentially give thousands of people outdoor wireless access while on the go in cities throughout the U.S.

The customized Ford Transit 350 cargo van is outfitted with six Wi-Fi access points - enough to serve an estimated 2,500 people attending an event. Comcast worked with Ericsson to bring the vision to life and plans to use the vans to support community activities, sporting events and emergency response initiatives.

The van specifications also include a number of industry-firsts, including multiple network access connections, non-line-of-sight (NLOS) microwave backhaul, onboard backup power and modular deployment elements that enable Comcast to launch operations in minutes.

Angel Ruiz, President and CEO, Ericsson North America, says: "Driving innovation means not only bringing the best technology, but also enabling it to be used in new ways. This new rapid deployment solution will mean fast dispatch and hassle-free setup for Comcast, so they can bring coverage to new hard to reach locations."

Ericsson AB (Nasdaq: ERIC)