BMW connects cars to satellites for V2X communication

The 5G Automotive Association and BMW are collaborating to showcase the first standard satellite link to cars on public roads, with the technology expected to be fully operational by 2027. The demonstration, scheduled to take place in Paris, will utilize the Non-terrestrial Network (NTN) standard specification developed by 3GPP, leveraging satellites from Viasat and Skylo. A key feature of this technology is its seamless integration with terrestrial cellular networks, despite the satellite links operating at a low bit rate of 0.5 to 1kbit/s for transmitting safety messages via geostationary orbits.

Moreover, the 5GAA will also unveil the first direct car-to-car data links in action, showcasing the cutting-edge advancements in vehicle connectivity. This development marks a significant milestone in the evolution of automotive technology, paving the way for enhanced communication and safety features on the roads.

Maxime Flament, the CTO of 5GAA, emphasized the importance of exploring various radio access technologies for vehicle connectivity, including traditional mobile networks, both terrestrial and non-terrestrial, as well as peer-to-peer communication between vehicles. The focus is primarily on improving traffic efficiency and safety, ranging from basic intersection alerts to more complex data exchange regarding dynamic objects surrounding the vehicle.

As part of their testing efforts, 5GAA has been working on ensuring interoperability across multiple OEMs and Tier One suppliers. The association boasts a membership that includes major automotive manufacturers such as BMW, Mercedes, Honda, Audi, VW, Volvo, and others, along with key integrators and technology providers in the automotive ecosystem.

Olaf Eckart, the engineering lead for NTN at BMW, highlighted the growing significance of connectivity in vehicles, stressing that a lack of connection is no longer a viable option. He underscored the collaborative nature of the industry, emphasizing the need for cross-sector cooperation to achieve robust and reliable connectivity solutions. The integration of satellite technology into terrestrial networks is seen as a crucial step towards achieving cost-effective and scalable connectivity solutions.