From roadways to airways. The connected vehicle explained

At MakoLab, we have been bridging the worlds of IT, road transport and air transport with connected solutions for years. In this article, we harness our know-how to describe the basics of connected vehicle technology and present the applications and benefits to those two forms of transport, along with the challenges. You can also go on to delve deeper by checking out our connected vehicle offer.

The term ‘connected vehicle’ refers to transportation systems equipped with internet access, sensors and communication technologies. They interact with each other and with external systems like traffic infrastructure and cloud services. Connected road vehicles collect and share real-time data to improve safety, efficiency and convenience while driving. 

In the context of connected technology, communication between a road vehicle and another object is called Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X). It allows vehicles to communicate not only with one another, but also with infrastructure, networks and elements in the environment.

For greater precision, the letter ‘X’ is sometimes replaced with another letter. This gives us, for example:

• Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V). Vehicles can communicate with each other directly and share information about their speed, position and direction. This type of communication allows information to be exchanged and shared between moving vehicles, regardless of roadside infrastructure;
• Vehicle-to-Infrastructure (V2I). Here, vehicles can connect with traffic lights, road signs and other infrastructure, collecting information about the infrastructure to improve safety and increase mobility by means of the data gathered.

These technologies are not limited to cars. Planes, other modes of transport and drones also use connected systems to improve navigation and safety. The result is a more integrated and intelligent transportation network.

Vehicle connectivity has evolved significantly over the past few decades. In the beginning, it was limited to basic radio and telecommunication systems. Connected road vehicles can be traced back to the 1980s, when BMW introduced an on-board computer to its Formula One racing car. In 1996, the eCall system came into use. Designed to contact the nearest emergency centre in the event of an accident, it revolutionised road safety. The late 1990s saw both the launch of OnStar by General Motors, in partnership with Motorola, and Mercedes-Benz’s inauguration of the first wireless key for its W220 S-Class range.

The first major leap forward came with the introduction of GPS technology, which enabled real-time navigation. GPS systems were installed in vehicles for the first time in 1999 and that same year, Mercedes-Benz introduced the TeleAid automatic emergency call system, which facilitated not only the remote tracking of stolen cars, but also roadside assistance.

In the early 2000s, manufacturers began integrating more advanced telematics systems, providing improved functionalities like emergency calling, vehicle diagnostics and remote unlocking. The development of telematics technologies progressed rapidly and, in 2001, remote vehicle diagnostics were integrated for the first time. In 2004, BMW began using SIM cards in its cars and the first data-driven telematics solutions appeared. The launch of the iPhone the following year brought smartphone applications that made connecting with cars a reality.

Another important milestone came in the 2010s with the arrival of 4G LTE, which enabled real-time data sharing and more advanced in-car infotainment systems. Subsequent innovations, such as Apple’s CarPlay in 2014 and Mercedes-Benz’s remote parking system in 2015, simply confirmed the growing role of connected technology in the automotive industry. In 2019, the European Union introduced a requirement for all new car models to be equipped with an eCall system, underlining the growing importance of road safety and connectivity. Currently, the implementation of 5G means that connected vehicles will benefit from ultra-low latency and higher data speeds, enabling advanced applications like autonomous driving and real-time traffic management.

It is predicted that by 2030, 96% of new cars worldwide will be connected, making this technology a key part of the future for the automotive industry. At the same time, this evolution reflects the broader trend towards a fully interconnected transportation ecosystem, where every form of travel communicates seamlessly to improve overall safety and efficiency.

When we talk about ‘vehicle’ here, what exactly do we mean? Well, at MakoLab, we don’t only apply our skills and know-how to road and off-road vehicles. We also work with technologies that contribute to the development of aviation.

Connected cars rely on a combination of advanced technologies to facilitate coherent communication and enhanced functionality.

Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) play a crucial role, offering features like adaptive cruise control (ACC), lane-keeping assistance (LKA) and automatic emergency braking (AEB). They use a mix of cameras, radar and light detection and radar (LIDAR) sensors to monitor the vehicle’s surroundings and respond accordingly.

Telematics systems provide real-time vehicle diagnostics, remote monitoring and over-the-air software updates. This ensures that the vehicle remains in optimal condition and is updated with the latest software enhancements.

Finally, 5G connectivity will provide all the advantages we have already outlined in the previous section.

Aircraft use a sophisticated array of technologies to maintain connectivity throughout a flight. One of the primary systems is satellite communication (Satcom), which allows for constant data exchange between the aircraft and ground control. This ensures that pilots receive real-time updates on weather conditions, flight paths and other critical information.

Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) is another key technology. It enables planes to broadcast their position, speed and other data to other aircraft nearby and air traffic control, enhancing situational awareness and improving air traffic management.

Wi-Fi and in-flight entertainment systems are becoming standard in commercial aviation, providing passengers with Internet access and a range of entertainment options via systems using a combination of satellite and ground-based communication networks to deliver cohesive connectivity.

Together, these technologies ensure that planes stay connected, safe and efficient.

Connected vehicle technology offers numerous benefits. The main advantage is heightened safety. Sharing real-time data between vehicles and infrastructure can prevent accidents by alerting drivers to potential hazards such as sudden braking or adverse weather conditions.

Another significant benefit of connected vehicle technology is efficiency, since it facilitates route optimisation on the basis of real-time traffic data, reducing not only travel times, but also congestion. This, in turn, leads to lower fuel consumption and reduced emissions, contributing to environmental sustainability.

User comfort is another area that is forging ahead. Features like remote diagnostics, over-the-air software updates and personalised infotainment systems all enhance the driving experience. Meanwhile, commercial fleets are profiting from the improved organisation and asset management that are offered by connected vehicles and translate into cost savings and increased reliability. 

In short, integrating connectivity into vehicles is transforming road transportation and the driving experience, making it safer, smarter, more efficient and highly convenient for individuals and businesses alike.

The future of connected vehicles is set to be shaped by several exciting trends. Advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning are enabling vehicles to navigate complex environments with minimal human intervention, so autonomous driving is definitely in the vanguard.

Another significant trend is the integration of 5G networks, which will provide the ultra-low latency and high-speed data transfer necessary for real-time communication and processing. This will enhance applications like the V2V and V2I communications discussed earlier in this article, making roads safer and more efficient.

Blockchain technology is also emerging as a tool to improve security and transparency in connected vehicles. With its capability of enabling secure data sharing and transactions between vehicles and other entities, it promises to reduce the risk of cyberattacks.

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly connected, offering consistent integration with smart grids and renewable energy sources. This will not only make the EVs themselves more efficient, but will also contribute to a more sustainable transportation ecosystem.

These trends indicate a future where connected cars will be smarter, safer and more integrated than ever before.

In this article, we have presented an overview of the transformative impact of connected vehicle technology on road vehicles and aircraft. Connected vehicles are equipped with advanced sensors, software and internet connectivity, enabling real-time communication with other vehicles, infrastructure and external systems. This technology is making transportation smarter, enhancing integration and boosting safety, efficiency and user convenience.

We have also introduced some basic terms associated with connected vehicles and provided a brief historical outline of the history of connected vehicle technology, touching on the evolution from 4G to 5G, as well. We have set out the benefits of connected vehicles, including improved safety, reduced traffic congestion and elevated user experiences and have also looked at the technologies that support connected cars and the systems used to keep aircraft connected during flights.

To find out more about our work on driving the future of connected road vehicles, visit automotive page or contact us to talk up your connected car needs.

What is a connected vehicle?

A connected vehicle is equipped with internet access, sensors and communication technologies that enable it to interact with other vehicles, infrastructure and external systems, improving safety, efficiency and convenience.

How have connected vehicles evolved over time?

Connected vehicle technology began with basic telecommunication systems in the 1980s and evolved through milestones like GPS integration and telematics. The introduction of 4G and now 5G has further advanced the capabilities of connected vehicles, enabling real-time data sharing and advanced features like autonomous driving.

What technologies are essential for connected vehicles?

Key technologies include Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), telematics for real-time diagnostics and 5G connectivity. In aviation, satellite communication, automatic dependent surveillance–broadcast (ADS-B) and in-flight Wi-Fi are crucial to maintaining connectivity and safety.

What are the future trends in connected vehicle technology?

Future trends include advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning for autonomous driving, 5G network integration for faster data transfer, blockchain for improved security and the increasing connectivity of electric vehicles with smart grids and renewable energy sources.

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Translated from the Polish by Caryl Swift