A Comprehensive Guide to Connected Cars

By
IntelligentHQ

The technological evolution has significantly impacted our interaction with our vehicles. The sense and ease of driving experience have improved considerably. The idea of connected cars redefines our driving experience. So, what are connected cars? What are the features a connected car has? Let’s understand-

What are Connected Cars?

Connected cars are vehicles that have internet access. Internet access has helped vehicles transfer data with outside and inside devices of the car.  One can use their mobile data network to build an internet connection and enjoy services from a remote place through their smartphones. Therefore, a connected car has to have a reliable internet connection to transmit and receive data.

The Technology Behind the Functioning of Connected Cars

The technology of connected cars involves two systems, such as Embedded and Tethered Systems. Some connected cars have embedded systems while other connected cars involve tethered systems.

  • Embedded System:

This system provides an internet-ready setup where the antenna and chipsets are pre-installed in the car. This type of connected car can build connections with other devices through Wi-Fi, send difficult accessible data, and download updates automatically.

  • Tethered System:

This system requires your smartphone’s mobile data network to connect the devices inside the car to the internet.  Even though a tethered system is not an integrated system like an embedded system, this system can offer a strong feel of connectivity by supporting different remote functions.

Important Features of a Connected Car

Connected cars offer a wide range of smart and advanced features to boost the driving experience as well as the ownership experience. Here are some important features of a connected car-

  • Connected cars offer internet connectivity and allow us to access online apps, use onboard Wi-Fi, and get updates over the air.
  • The owners of the connected cars can set geographical boundaries and get alert messages if they cross the boundary. This feature is useful for parents as they can monitor their sons or daughters.
  • Some connected cars come with smartphone apps. Manufacture will install the app on your smartphone. By using the app, you can control multiple functions of the car, including unlocking and locking the car doors, starting and stopping the engine, and monitoring the climate.
  • It is possible to develop vehicle-to-vehicle communication (V2V) between two connected cars. Connected cars can exchange information with each other regarding speed limits, road hazards, and traffic conditions.
  • Connected cars also have features like roadside assistance, live location tracking, and emergency SOS calls to boost the security of the car and ensure people’s safety.
  • Remote parking is another interesting facility that some connected cars offer. A driver can move and place the car within a tight spot using the smartphone app.
  • Lastly, connected cars give you access to a variety of entertainment services, such as internet radio, music streaming, and video playback.

Connected cars not only just integrate the internet connection with the car but also improve efficiency, safety, and entertainment. Hopefully, we will find more innovative applications for connected cars in the future that will make our driving experiences safer and more exciting.

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