UNIO Secures €2.5m Funding to Accelerate Auto 5G-Satellite Connectivity

UNIO, a German space startup, has secured pre-seed investment of €2.5 million to accelerate the development and launch of its UNIO 'bridge' product. This enterprise-class commercial vehicle system aims to provide continuous connectivity for connected vehicles transitioning between 5G and satellite connectivity. The logistics and agricultural sectors are the primary target markets for this product, with initial deliveries expected in early 2024 and a full customer rollout planned for Q3 2024.

The funding was raised from space companies OHB and IABG, as well as existing UNIO shareholders SES and Reflex Aerospace. SES and Reflex Aerospace, along with Mynaric and Isar Aerospace, are UNIO's joint venture foundation partners who have increased their investment in the company.

"The significant investment amount and the clear willingness of our investors to support us, despite the challenging investment climate, not only validates the effectiveness of our product design and upcoming production, but also our broader business strategy to provide fast, secure, and always-on connectivity," said Katrin Bacic, CEO of UNIO.

UNIO was founded in Munich in 2022 and is a joint venture between Isar Aerospace, Reflex Aerospace, Mynaric, and SES. Isar Aerospace specializes in manufacturing launch vehicles for small payloads, Reflex Aerospace is a European satellite manufacturer, Mynaric specializes in laser communications, and SES is a satellite operator and provider of content and connectivity services.

In related news, Mira has successfully delivered 5G connectivity using a fixed-wing HAPS (High-Altitude Platform System) in the stratosphere.