Using a smartphone has become a daily activity in your life. However, integration of smart technology is not now limited to mobiles. Automotive manufacturers have started using this technology to introduce connected cars. So, you can now connect your vehicle with a smartphone. Let us now talk about the evolution of modern connected car technology.
Origin Of Connected Cars- Learn About The History
The first technologically connected car entered the market in 1911. In this year, an automobile brand set up an electric starter in the car. This trend of wiring vehicles led to other developments in the automotive industry. The most popular advancements were-
- The 9 track player
- GPS navigation systems in the dashboard
- Computer diagnostics
- Airbags
- The cassette deck
In the 21st century, the automotive industry witnessed a series of innovations-
- USB ports
- Bluetooth car connectivity
- Wi-Fi ideas
So, these technologies led to the concept of connected cars.
General Motors made its debut in the world of connected cars in 1996. The integrated telematics systems started gaining popularity. The tech platform also informed users about the occurrence of the crash. So, it has become an additional security system.
In 1998, BMW, the premium automaker, rolled out BMW Telematics. It was intended to provide drivers with accurate traffic details and an instant call facility.
Over time, there has been an evolution of the technology. More features have been added to the vehicles, and car telematics have become smarter. BMW introduced a better telematics system, as it was integrated with a SIM card. So, users get easy access to entertainment services and news.
You can find further development of technologies introduced by automakers like Audi.
What Are Connected Vehicles?
A connected car refers to an automobile, integrated with advanced wireless networks. You can connect it with electronic gadgets like laptops and phones. Connected cars are also considered as the sophisticated Internet of Things. As a connected vehicle user, you can deliver, access, and receive data. Communication with other devices will be easier. You can update your car with the real-time data. The most common features related to connected car technology are-
- Geo-fencing
- Remote locking and unlocking
- Tire pressure updates
Remote access to these features will give you a lot of conveniences. Connected cars use WLAN networks and link to the internet. They can share data with external services and devices. Connected vehicles also perform functions based on the user’s request.
Connected Car Technology – How Does It Work?
Automobile makers known for manufacturing connected vehicles use different types of systems-
- Tethered systems
- Embedded systems
An Embedded car will have-
- A built-in antenna
- A chipset
A Tethered system will also have hardware, linked with your mobile. A connected car can deliver and access data easily besides downloading software updates.
Various Types Of Smart Connectivity For Your Vehicles
A connected car uses diverse communication technologies. Information and automotive technologies will work together.
- Vehicle-To-Vehicle– The modern V2V communication involves real-time information exchange between cars. Moreover, this technology is effective for keeping your vehicles safe.
- Vehicle-To-Infrastructure– V2I- It is another connectivity to ensure safety. The car interacts with the infrastructure on the highway. Furthermore, it receives and shares details like weather elements, traffic conditions, and speed limits.
- Vehicle-To-Cloud– Some cars use wireless LTE networks to establish V2C connection, and they transmit data with the modern cloud technology. V2C is effective for downloading OTA (over-the-air) car updates. You can also connect your vehicle with IoT gadgets.
- Vehicle-To-Pedestrian– The V2P system in connected cars ensures your safety. Cars with this system use sensors for pedestrian detection. You can receive a collision warning message.
- Vehicle-To-Everything– If you want a comprehensive solution, V2X connectivity is the best choice.
What Features Will You Find In Connected Cars?
A connected car has a range of convenient and smart features, which give you the best driving experience. These features also add a layer of security to the connected cars.
Vehicles with internet connectivity
While some cars establish connection with SIM cards, others have built-in chipsets. In the BMW iX and i4 series, you can find the use of Dual-SIM Dual-Active technology. Other vehicle makers have also started implementing it. As a connected vehicle user, you can access video/music streaming and other digital services. You may also store more than one e-SIM profile while having a ride in the automobile. The automatic activation and deactivation of the systems are highly advantageous.
Apps to vehicles connectivity
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are the most popular apps for parents. So, parents can install the app on the young driver’s mobiles and activate DND While Driving. Parent controls allow you to deal with activities happening in the cars. Audio volume, apps, and several other things will be under your control.
Moreover, due to wireless data transmission, you can learn about the vehicle’s position and brake status. You will receive a warning message if there is a risk of a clash. It may be a dashboard notification or an audible alert to let you know about potential issues.
Biometric technology for connected cars
The premium-quality connected cars come with biometric technology. Security threat is the biggest concern in the automobile industry. Biometric technologies were introduced to avoid the loopholes. Several vehicle manufacturers have implemented biometrics to provide drivers and owners with the best experience. There is also face recognition technology to keep the car doors secure. Biometric markers consider your facial features and fingerprints to secure different aspects of a car. Drivers also have no concern when they park their cars.
Conclusion
Connected car technology has gained the attention of many vehicle drivers and passengers. This technology is, however, not limited to traditional vehicles. Autonomous cars also use the technology to interact with the cloud system and road infrastructure. The new 5G connectivity will refine the technology in the future. Moreover, connected automobiles will run smoother and smarter.