Telematics technology trends

Analysts at the Telematics Research Group explain the computer communications, and automotive electronic component advancements that will influence systems development.

Two driving forces-the needs for connectivity and digital car capabilities-will be catalysts for telematics and related technologies in the next decade, according to analysts at Telematics Research Group, Inc. The question is not if automotive telematics will happen, but when, how fast, and what functions will become prevalent. Telematics is an enabling technology supported by trends and advancements in computer, communications, and automotive electronics; it is not a single application or solution to a problem. Embedded functions such as remote diagnostics, electronic toll collection, event data recorders, and in-vehicle communications are made feasible by the technology. Automotive telematics provides a platform for services and content that could offer value to the customer, such as traffic information, routing, and customized voice portals.

Telematics Research Group defines a telematics-enabled vehicle as having two-way communications, a location-sensing device, and a control unit that interfaces with the passenger vehicle's electronics system (Table 1). There are often many additional features and capabilities in telematics systems, which will become quite complex because they involve so many different industries: computer, semiconductor, communications, consumer electronics, and automotive. Telematics also spans many content industries such as communications services, travel, weather and traffic information, entertainment, Internet, and location-based services. For telematics to succeed, considerable technology infrastructure and continuous technology advances are required. Some infrastructure is already in place, but more is needed to ensure long-term success. For example, if the technology infrastructure for 2.5G and 3G cellular network deployment is further delayed, it may also delay the growth of telematics. And any new market needs a mechanism that can nurture the birth of a new industry-a factor often overlooked and not well understood.