Technological advancements have affected every industry and the automobile is no exception. The inclusion of advancements like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) in cars have reshaped the future of mobility. That said, many brands are now focused on unveiling connected cars, a vehicle inclusive of IoT. Connected cars can link with the internet providing multiple communication possibilities and facilities.
Let’s take a closer look at what is a connected car and what features it brings to the table for the drivers.
Definition of Connected Cars
A connected car is a vehicle that can get connected to the internet and devices through a wireless network. The IoT in vehicles allows it to communicate and transfer information to car dashboard software, infotainment system, laptops, mobile applications, emergency centres and other devices.
How Connected Car System Works
The IoT in automotive allows connected cars to assist drivers and increase driveability. That said, the connected car technology either uses embedded systems, tethered systems or a combination of both to connect the vehicle to the internet and other devices.
Mentioned below are the complete details of embedded and tethered systems.
Embedded System
As evident from the name, in the embedded system, the car comes with a pre-installed antenna and chipset. The system allows users to download updates, connect with other devices and send remote data. Vehicles with embedded systems are provided internet-ready by the manufacturers and each manufacturer has its embedded system. For instance: if you will buy a new Cadillac, it will be pre-equipped with Cadillac Connected Service.
Tethered System
Contrary to embedded systems, the tethered system depends on the driver’s phone for connectivity. Tethered systems utilise the internet from the mobile and connect with other devices. Tethered systems are not as efficient as embedded systems, but it also helps in increasing vehicle efficiency and functionality.
Regardless of the system, connected car telematics data is generated through the smart city ecosystem.
Types of Connected Car Communication
Similar to self-driving cars, connected cars also communicate with other vehicles on the road, devices and systems as per the requirements. Here are the different types of connected car communication that create a network of connected vehicles and devices on the road.
Vehicle to Pedestrian (V2P)
V2P communication is when a connected car informs the driver regarding the pedestrians’ position. For V2P communication, sensors and radars installed on the vehicle are used. The same set of sensors is used in other types of modern car safety features.
Vehicle to Vehicle (V2V)
V2V communication is the real-time information sharing between different connected cars present on the road. Information like speed, braking and direction is shared between the vehicles to alert them of a potential hazard. For instance: connected cars can inform others about a reckless driver or an accident vehicle ahead.
Vehicle to Cloud (V2C)
The V2C communication allows users to access the IoT database and access a myriad of datasets as per their needs. Users can get maps, directions and even diagnostic reports from the cloud. The cloud simply provides the car access to the broader IoT ecosystem.
Vehicle to Infrastructure (V2I)
The communication between infrastructure and vehicles provides drivers with real-time road-related information. It can tell the road condition, construction zones, bridge height, traffic signal status and weather conditions. The information allows drivers to take timely action, contributing to overall road safety.
Despite the real-time information, drivers are required to be alert and follow all the safety rules. If you are new to driving, here are some road safety rules and regulations in Abu Dhabi that you should be aware of.
Vehicle to Everything (V2X)
As the name suggests, vehicle to everything includes all types of communication mentioned above. The strong communication network of connected cars aids in road safety and provides a hassle-free driving experience.
Benefits of Connected Cars
The real-time information collected and utilised by connected cars provides drivers with a number of benefits. That said, the information is also used by several safety and driver-assist features.
Some of the core connected car benefits that drivers can avail of are listed below.
Emergency Assistance
In case of an accident, the connected car can contact the nearest emergency unit and car repair centre. Moreover, it will also inform other cars within the radius to maintain a distance from an accidental vehicle.
Some connected cars also have emergency stop assistance system which uses real-time information and stops the car automatically if the driver is unconscious.
Traffic Alert
All sorts of real-time traffic alerts are provided by the connected car to the driver. This not only helps in avoiding traffic jams but also reduces accident chances.
Maintenance Alarm
Connected cars collect data from different parts of the vehicle and utilise it to predict maintenance. The vehicle issues an alert regarding the car component which needs maintenance. Whether it is regular or commonly neglected maintenance services, it alerts about all.
Software Update
Similar to phone and laptop updates, the car software also gets updated regularly. The connected cars can detect and upgrade the software autonomously. This allows drivers to avail themselves of the software without any hassle of manually updating it.
Parking Aid
Connected cars can help in finding a parking spot and also park the vehicle autonomously. Cars use infrastructure information and car parking sensors to assist in parking.
This was the complete information regarding the connected cars and the benefits it provides to the drivers. The connected car technology is efficient and can assist drivers in multiple ways. That said, if you are still driving your old vehicle, it’s time to switch. Browse these used cars for sale in the UAE and get your connected car within no time.
Stay tuned to dubizzle’s auto blog for more information on connected car icons.
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