WASHINGTON - MORE cars are hitting the information superhighway thanks to new automotive Wi-Fi technology that allows vehicles to become rolling 'hot spots.'

Analysts say consumers are warming to the notion of more connectivity in their cars, with 'apps' for information and entertainment just as they have with their smartphones or tablet computers.

'Initially, putting Internet access in the car sounds like a distraction and frivolous but as time passes it will become a part of our lives and we will feel uncomfortable not having access,' said Jeff Kagan, an independent telecoms analyst.

'I think this is going to grow into a vibrant sector.' Market research firm iSuppli said it expects a surge in worldwide shipments of car Wi-Fi systems to 7.2 million units by 2017, from just 174,000 in 2010. Wi-Fi has been around for several years as an aftermarket accessory but many major manufacturers now offer some form of Wi-Fi or are developing it.

Ford has been offering Wi-Fi in selected models since 2010 and some form of Internet access is also offered by many other major automakers including General Motors, BMW, Audi, Saab and Chrysler.

In mid-March, Finnish telecom giant Nokia announced the launch of a Car Connectivity Consortium of 11 companies with common technical standards, including vehicle manufacturers Daimler, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Toyota, and Volkswagen.