Cars of the future will be software-driven, smartphone-connected, satellite-networked, cloud-compatible machines, capable of analyzing and learning from data and communicating with drivers and other cars. The thing is, the future is actually here and now. Some cars produced today come with over 50 connectivity features. Such connectivity enables vehicles to inform drivers about road and traffic conditions, thereby decreasing the risk of road incidents, as well as provide more intuitive access to infotainment systems or the freedom to control a vehicle from outside the car. Ultimately, it will drastically improve the safety, comfort and convenience of driving, not only for drivers but also all industry players and even pedestrians.
Telematics is a central theme when it comes to car connectivity as it involves transferring real-time data over long distances. Telematics consists of hardware and software, which incorporate some type of cellular communication, essentially converting vehicles into information stations. Continental’s Intelligent Antenna Module, an interface between the car and the outside world, uses telematics to enable a car to receive and share information with infrastructure, other cars, smartphones, cellular networks, satellite navigation and radio broadcast using WiFi, WLAN, LTE, GNSS and other forms of wireless communication .