iPad cellular

No, you cannot. You can purchase a cellular plan, but only of the wi-fi + cellular model of the iPad. The wi-fi only device will only work when you are connected to wi-fi, and you wouldn't be able to do that inside a vehicle. For that you would need the cellular as Giulio stated. They are two separate devices.

Sweatrz wrote:

so if I want it for my kids and we go on a car ride I can still purchase an att or Verizon data plan on the non cellular model iPad?

You need to be running near an iPhone operating as a hotspot, or have a MiFi or similar device, or be in a vehicle with Wi-Fi and cellular capabilities; some cars and some buses have that capability.

A non-cellular iPad is a non-cellular iPad, and cannot (by itself) access cellular networks.

An iPad Wifi+Cellular model lets you insert a "only data" SIM card (with the appropriate plan with your carrier) to be used for Internet access when you do not have any Wifi network available.

Also, that model has GPS built-in facility.

Regards

Giulio