The modern automobile is simply loaded with electronics. From basic conveniences like power seats, windows, and mirrors to the latest advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), the automobile has become a major electronics platform. Missing from this electronics collection is some form of wireless connectivity to the external world.
Yes, many of today’s vehicles do include wireless such as AM, FM, and satellite radio; GPS navigation; and Bluetooth connectivity. Some even offer a Wi-Fi hot spot. However, cars don’t communicate with one another or with any infrastructure. That neglect is about to be remedied—more wireless connectivity is on the way.
Telematics Today, But What About Tomorrow?
One connectivity feature showing up in newer vehicles is telematics. Telematics is basically just the wireless transmission of specific types (e.g., sensor) of data. In vehicles, telematics usually transmits GPS location data by way of the cellular system. It’s widely used on trucks and fleet vehicles to track their location and condition. It’s also found in cars, but isn’t as widely implemented in that space as of yet. The most well-known example is GM’s OnStar. Telematics employs a GPS receiver and a basic cellphone to report a vehicle’s location and to signal an accident. Other features are things like remote door unlocking and emergency service.
In Europe, all new cars after April 2018 must have eCall, a service that gives GPS location via a cellular connection. It reports an accident and provides a service in an emergency. This mandated feature requires that all new cars have a telematics control unit (TCU) with a GPS receiver, cell phone, and MCU with various sensors and controls. Such a feature may become a formal requirement in the U.S. In the future, that TCU will no doubt interact with other electronic systems within the car, including the ADAS.