A Holistic Communication Network for Efficient Transport and Enhanced Driving via Connected Cars

Abstract

Growing markets and novel technologies for cooperative and integrated vehicular communication are offering excellent opportunities for innovative business and coordinated research and standardization worldwide. Network operators as well as manufacturers of cars and devices for automotive connectivity are heading towards a next generation ecosystem in framework of 5G permitting to provide a bunch of new applications. These shall contribute to improved traffic safety by reduction of number of accidents or even their avoidance, to a higher level of traffic efficiency by enabling better road utilization and reduced traffic congestion, to a significant reduction in energy consumption and CO2-emission, and to increased comfort for both drivers and passengers in cars. Such a vision can only be achieved by 5G-enabled connectivity and cooperation between vehicles and infrastructure on basis of a convergent, reliable, secure, and robust communications network that will enable real-time traffic control support.