(c)T-Mobile

T-Mobile has launched a device in the US that allows more cars to make use of connected features.

The SyncUP Drive goes on sale in late November at $149.99 or free if you sign up to a two-year, no-ost finance agreement with a 2GB or more internet plan. It’s unclear if the company will release the device in the UK, or when.

The SyncUP Drive turns your car into a Wi-Fi hotspot and includes vehicle diagnostics, safety and security features, as well as the ability to track your car.

The tool plugs into the car’s OBD-II (on board diagnostics) port, which T-Mobile says is standard on most cars built after 1996.

SyncUP is then ‘always on’, doesn't need charging and can be managed from your smartphone.

What's it good for?

Some of its uses include the ability to analyse driving behaviour,keeping track of ‘dangerous’ ones such as speeding, harsh braking and rapid acceleration. In addition, the tool can allow companies to keep track of business miles in company cars.

Through the device, T-Mobile says you can track multiple cars without contacting the drivers and set speeding alerts to encourage safe driving behaviour, as well as the ability to get notified when your car enters or leaves a certain area.

You can also locate your car via SyncUP, track its real-time driving location or deliver a notification of the car or device has been tampered with. It also offers a virtual mechanic to remind you of maintenance due.

Mobile device provider ZTE and connected car app platform Mojio has worked with T-Mobile to develop the device,  which could be on many people’s Chistmas wishlist stateside this year.