From MP3Car.com Wiki
Controller Area Network (CAN)
1. Is a high-integrity serial data communications bus for real-time applications
2. Operates at data rates of up to 1 Megabits per second
3. Has excellent error detection and confinement capabilities
4. Was originally developed by Bosch for use in cars
5. Is now being used in many other industrial automation and control applications
6. Is an international standard: ISO 11898
More info:
Automotive industry portal
CANbus Info