Why connectivity is key to the expanding in-car internet market

Accessing the internet whilst on the move is a must for today’s connected generation and that’s as true for drivers and their passengers as anyone else.

According to a recent survey from management consultants McKinsey, half of car owners want connectivity solutions in their vehicle, and the market is growing.

Connectivity is a particularly important market for vehicle manufacturers and their suppliers supplying their digital components to electric vehicles (EVs) because the survey shows that EV buyers are most open to these services, with about 69% planning to increase their use of connectivity solutions.

However, OEMs wanting to differentiate themselves are aware that consumers demand reliable internet access and flexible payment options, which have to be provided in a way that comply with local telecommunication regulations.

As a global leader in Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity, Vodafone Business IoT has specifically developed its Internet in the Car service to meet the demands outlined above.

We work alongside car manufacturers and their suppliers to ensure their customers get continuous in-car connectivity and infotainment services by providing regulatory-compliant internet access for drivers and car passengers. For their internet access, end users simply need to sign up with one of the multiple local, fully licensed telecommunication providers. The whole process is managed through our central ‘Internet in the Car’ platform, with the service allowing drivers to use the service in more than 40 European countries.

Drivers and their passengers will benefit from fast and reliable in-car internet access. Passengers are able to browse the internet, play online games, participate in online meetings, stream their favourite songs and access emails, while the driver can receive specialist performance monitoring data over the same connection.

OEMs have the freedom to choose how these services are made available to the end users, either through integrated head units and displays or through Wi-Fi hotspots. When it comes to connectivity costs, Vodafone Business IoT has flexible options to suit the needs of OEMs - either through a sponsorship model (ensuring highest take rate and user satisfaction) or through direct end user purchased data bundles to minimize cost impact.

With the increasing popularity of EVs and the prospect of further advances in autonomous cars, the appeal of digital in-car infotainment will continue to grow. The driver’s experience of the future will be defined by the OEMs that find the right connectivity partner to deliver reliable, secure and seamless internet services across multiple markets.