In the current era, connected vehicle technology is revolutionizing the driving experience, providing a new dimension of comfort and functionality for drivers. With the growing ecosystem of the Internet of Things (IoT), it is estimated that by 2025 there will be more than 400 million connected vehicles in operation, reflecting the growing consumer demand for a seamless and connected driving experience[1].
Connected Vehicle Technology: What Does It Entail?
A connected vehicle refers to a car capable of two-way communication with other systems outside the car via local wireless networks. There are two main systems that automotive companies can leverage: a vehicle integrated with a built-in chip and antenna, and a Connected System that connects to the driver’s smartphone[2].
This type of vehicle allows users to access the internet/send data, connect with other devices through IoT technology, download software updates, and provide WiFi internet connection to passengers. Moreover, the telematics of connected vehicles can be seamlessly accessed through connected technology, which is crucial for electric vehicles[3].
Types of Connectivity in Connected Vehicles
- Vehicle to Infrastructure (V2I): Mainly used for vehicle safety, it allows the vehicle to communicate with road infrastructure to share relevant information such as traffic/weather/road conditions, speed limits, accidents, among others.
- Vehicle to Vehicle (V2V): Provides real-time information exchange between vehicles, enabling effective communication on topics such as traffic, alternative routes, parking, road construction, among others.
- Vehicle-to-Cloud (V2C): Establishes a wireless connection through an LTE network to transmit data and information to the cloud, being fundamental for downloading over-the-air vehicle updates, remote diagnostics, and communication with other IoT devices[4].
The Importance of Testing Connected Vehicles
The complex architecture of connected vehicles, with components such as antennas, embedded software, sensors, among others, requires a rigorous testing process to ensure their efficiency, accuracy, and above all, the safety of the occupants[5].
In this regard, there are essential testing environments for performing comprehensive tests on connected vehicles, which include:
- Lab Testing: Creation of a controlled environment to monitor wireless connectivity, security, and the performance of sensors and other components.
- Road Testing: Evaluation of the real performance of vehicles under various road conditions, with practical tests ensuring safety, performance, and connectivity.
- Virtual Environment Testing: Virtual simulation based on data captured in a controlled test environment to assess the performance of each unit of the vehicle system[6].
Challenges and Key Aspects to Evaluate in Connected Vehicles
Technological advances in the automotive industry provide numerous opportunities, but they also pose significant challenges regarding consumer experience and operational safety. Some key challenges in testing connected vehicle applications include:
- Consumer demands for mobile-equivalent experiences in terms of functionalities and performance.
- The constant evolution of testing requirements due to the growing connection of vehicles with external sources and each other.
- Efficient management of testing in geographically distributed teams to ensure the quality and safety of complex systems[7].
In summary, as vehicles become increasingly connected, the importance of testing these systems to ensure their proper functioning, safety, and reliability becomes fundamental to providing a cutting-edge driving experience. Advances in connected vehicle technology not only improve driving quality but also open new business and monetization opportunities for the automotive industry.