Connected Cars: Exploring the Intersection of Automotive and IoT

An Internet-connected car revolutionised the automotive industry. They use mobile networks and can transfer data to other devices inside or outside the car. This includes services with remote access to smartphones and other devices. Since users request information about their car, it must always be connected to the Internet to transmit this data.

How do connected cars work?

The technology inside the connected car consists of one of two systems:

• Built-in - consists of a chipset and antenna built into the car.
• Tethered - cars that can connect to the user's phone.

Connected cars can download updates, send data accessible remotely, and connect locally to other devices via the car's built-in Wi-Fi. Capabilities extend to access to telematics data and remote vehicle functions, which are becoming particularly popular among electric cars.

Trends and Applications of IoT in Cars

As the automotive industry develops, connected cars are equipped with more smart features. The capabilities of related car technology improve the overall driving and ownership experience while enhancing safety through advanced features.

Increased car safety

One of the most significant benefits of IoT in the automotive industry is improved safety. IoT-enabled cars are equipped with a range of sensors that collect data in real-time, allowing for proactive safety measures:

• Collision Avoidance

Sensors detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes or adjust the vehicle's trajectory to avoid accidents.

• Lane Departure Warning

Sensors monitor the car’s position within its lane and alert the driver if it drifts out of its lane.

• Driver Fatigue Detection

Automotive sensors analyse driver behaviour and issue warnings when they detect signs of fatigue, such as erratic driving or drowsiness.

Intelligent maintenance and predictive analytics

The IoT ensures collecting and analysing data in real-time allows the automotive industry to identify potential problems before they escalate, reducing the risk of breakdowns and costly repairs. Key applications include:

• Remote Diagnostics

IoT sensors monitor various car components and notify the driver and service centre of potential faults or maintenance requirements.

• Predictive Maintenance

Manufacturers can identify patterns and predict maintenance needs, enabling proactive maintenance and reducing downtime.

• Efficient spare parts management

IoT-connected cars can automatically order spare parts when needed, ensuring timely availability and reducing waiting times.

Personalised driving experience

IoT technology enables a personalised and seamless driving experience. By integrating smart devices and apps, drivers can enjoy increased convenience and connectivity:

• Infotainment systems

IoT-enabled vehicles are equipped with advanced infotainment systems that offer personalised music, news, and entertainment options based on the driver's preferences.

• Smartphone integration

Drivers can connect their smartphones to their cars, providing hands-free calling, messaging, and access to navigation and music streaming apps.

• Remote vehicle control

IoT allows drivers to remotely control various vehicle functions, such as locking/unlocking doors, starting the engine, and adjusting climate control settings using smartphone apps.

Traffic management and optimization

IoT plays a vital role in collecting and analysing data from multiple vehicles and infrastructure enables traffic patterns to be effectively monitored and managed. Key applications include:

• Real-time traffic updates

IoT-connected vehicles receive real-time updates on road conditions, allowing drivers to take alternative routes and avoid congested areas.

• Smart Parking

Sensors installed in parking lots and streets provide real-time information about available parking spaces, reducing the time spent searching for parking and minimising congestion.

• Optimising Traffic Signals

IoT allows traffic signals to adjust their timing based on real-time traffic flow, optimising the overall traffic management system and reducing wait times.

Risks and challenges of connected cars

Despite all the incredible features the modern automotive industry proposes, connected cars pose many challenges during and after development. For a connected car to do its job correctly, its devices, such as sensors, imaging devices, embedded systems, circuits, cloud solutions must work correctly and in tandem with each other.

• communication between car, app and cloud;
• car navigation;
• location tracking;
• enable mobile features;
• monitor car's health;
• constant demand for the Internet;
• multi-language features and translations;
• route management;
• unpredicted driver behaviour.

Addressing these challenges requires an integrated approach to automotive software development, the use of AI, improved urban infrastructure, and enhanced mobile internet connectivity.

The IoT has undoubtedly changed the automotive industry by making cars smarter, safer, and more efficient. The IoT has revolutionised how we interact with our cars, from advanced safety features and remote diagnostics to personalised driving experiences and optimised traffic management. As technology advances, automotive companies require staffing solutions and a vast talent pool to develop software and hardware for automobiles. Request ALLSTARSIT for staffing solutions that can suit your business and get started with innovations.