Universal connectivity is essential if connected cars are to reach their full potential, and a new network in Europe takes us one step closer to that.
Ireland-based connectivity provider Cubic Telecom has introduced what it claims is the largest independent LTE platform in Europe for connected car and machine-to-machine (M2M) applications.
The new platform provides local connectivity regardless of where the driver ventures, Cubic Telecom said. It includes over-the-air SIM updating capabilities so connectivity options can be reprogrammed throughout the lifetime of the car, enabling much more flexibility and better security as the industry evolves.
The platform is directly connected to Tier 1 network operators including EE, Eir (formerly Eircom), Mobistar, Orange, Salt (formerly Orange Switzerland), Tele2 and TIM. The initial network rollout provides high-speed connectivity in 13 countries including Germany, France, Spain, Italy, the UK, Ireland, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Sweden, Austria and Denmark.
Connected car drivers who subscribe to the platform will get seamless connectivity to their infotainment services. Drivers can also purchase regional or Europe-wide data plans which provide 24/7 access to Wi-Fi connectivity, personal apps and more.
“We are live on 2G, 3G and LTE with nine Tier 1 operators in 13 countries, empowering the top automotive OEMs with the largest independent LTE network footprint in Europe,” commented Barry Napier, chief executive of Cubic Telecom. “Cubic Telecom’s initial focus is on rolling out a high-speed LTE platform with mobile operators for M2M customers with our global SIM solution.”
Cubic Telecom enabled vehicles are expected to enter the market across Europe in the coming months.
