Sprint Drive was an innovative device designed to transform almost any car into a smart car by simply plugging a dongle into its onboard diagnostics (OBD-II) port. Introduced around November 2018, it provided a suite of connected car services, enhancing convenience, safety, and vehicle management for drivers and their passengers.
How Sprint Drive Works
The core of Sprint Drive was a compact dongle that users would insert into their vehicle's OBD-II port, typically located near the steering wheel. Once plugged in, the device leveraged Sprint's 4G LTE network to enable a range of advanced features, essentially making the car "smart." This simple plug-and-play setup allowed for quick installation without professional help.
Key Features and Benefits
Sprint Drive offered a comprehensive package of functionalities aimed at improving the driving experience and vehicle security. These features were accessible through a dedicated smartphone application, providing users with real-time insights and control.
Here's a breakdown of its primary benefits:
- In-Car 4G LTE Wi-Fi:
- Provided a reliable mobile hotspot within the vehicle.
- Supported connectivity for up to eight devices, allowing passengers to browse, stream, and work on the go.
- Ensured consistent internet access for entertainment and productivity during commutes or road trips.
- Real-time Vehicle Tracking:
- Enabled users to monitor their vehicle's location in real-time.
- Ideal for keeping tabs on family members, new drivers, or locating a parked car.
- Included features like geofencing alerts for when the vehicle enters or exits defined areas.
- Vehicle Diagnostics:
- Offered insights into the car's health by translating complex diagnostic codes into easy-to-understand alerts.
- Alerted drivers to potential issues, such as battery problems or engine light warnings.
- Helped in proactive maintenance, potentially preventing more significant mechanical failures.
- 24/7 Roadside Assistance:
- Provided peace of mind with round-the-clock support for common roadside emergencies.
- Services typically included towing, jump-starts, flat tire changes, and fuel delivery.
- Integrated assistance accessible directly through the Sprint Drive platform.
To summarize its capabilities, here's a quick overview:
| Feature | Description | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | In-car 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot | Internet for up to 8 devices, enhanced productivity and entertainment |
| Location & Security | Real-time vehicle tracking | Monitor car location, set geofences, enhanced security |
| Vehicle Health | Diagnostic alerts and insights | Proactive maintenance, understanding car issues, preventing breakdowns |
| Support | 24/7 Roadside Assistance | Peace of mind, immediate help for breakdowns, towing, etc. |
Transforming Your Car into a Smart Vehicle
By combining cellular connectivity with an intuitive device, Sprint Drive empowered drivers with capabilities previously found only in newer, high-end vehicles. It turned any compatible car into a connected ecosystem, offering features that enhanced safety, convenience, and control for the modern driver. Although Sprint has since merged with T-Mobile, products like Sprint Drive represented a significant step in making connected car technology accessible to a broader audience at the time of its release.
