A new scalable connectivity platform for automotive innovation

Commercial context

Automakers operate in a highly competitive and fast-moving industry - so are always trying to enhance vehicle capabilities to ensure superior experiences for drivers and passengers. Connectivity increasingly supports real-time services - such as traffic management, collision avoidance and immersive in-vehicle entertainment - which make journeys safer and more enjoyable while reducing travel times.

CSPs therefore regard the automotive sector as a potential driver of future revenue growth. And, with the rollout of versatile 5G networks, CSPs are in an ever-stronger position to address automotive applications for connectivity. Automakers are keenly seeking cost-effective connected solutions that they can deploy quickly. However, a fragmented ecosystem can make it difficult for automakers to source seamless connectivity and identify scalable deployment options.

The solution

The ‘AI-enabled system for vehicle-road-cloud collaboration’ Catalyst is designed to meet this need by integrating wireless and core network capabilities with AI and edge computing. The team is looking to replace traditional PC5 interfaces, which are used by vehicles for short-range connectivity, with 5G Uu-based interfaces. This equates to switching from direct, short-range communication between vehicles and roadside units to network-based communication using cellular infrastructure.

The team says V2X (vehicle to infrastructure) connectivity will provide vehicles with ubiquitous, always-on access connectivity. This will also come without the need for vehicle hardware upgrades. In this way, the Catalyst plans to simplify deployment, reduce costs, and accelerate time-to-market for automakers. The team are employing a range of TM Forum APIs including DCS 5GSlice Service Activation, Network with a Service Management, Customer Management, Product Ordering Management, Alarm Management and Resource Pool Management APIs. By leveraging open standardized APIs, the project converts telecoms networks into an innovation platform that promotes innovation in the intelligent driving ecosystem.

These APIs provide automakers with a platform to offer a range of differentiated, value-added services. These services could include real-time traffic orchestration, predictive collision alerts and environmental monitoring, which enhance both safety and efficiency. The project is also using other TM Forum assets such as the Autonomous Networks Framework and the Generative AI for Autonomous Networks report. By integrating multiple technologies into a single solution, the Catalyst is hoping to bring about a shift from "single-point technological innovation" to a "four-dimensional synergy of vehicle-road-cloud-network," notes Zheng Jieying, Senior Project Manager, China Telecommunications Corporation, one of the Champions of the Catalyst.

Application and wider value

Automakers could employ the Catalyst’s solution to support a wide range of use cases. For example, automakers can enhance driving performance, reduce accident rates, and subsequently increase brand premium by utilizing real-time roadside perception data. Connectivity also enables ultra-low-latency hazard notifications. Otherwise, it also delivers over the-air software updates, high-definition maps, and rich in-vehicle media.

“By exposing these capabilities through open, standardized APIs, we empower automakers to unlock new service models, expand revenue streams, and contribute to the moonshot challenge of a 20% annual increase in API-driven revenue for CSPs,” says Zheng Jieying. “We accelerate the innovation and raise the cost efficiency. And we provide the carriers with new revenue streams. For business, the solution drives 20–30% cost savings and 15–25% revenue growth through cross-industry collaboration, user-centric subscriptions, and data monetization.”

Together with China Telecom, Tianyijiaotong Technology and Suzhou Zhito Technology are also champions of the Catalyst. ZTE Corporation, China Telecom Fufu Information Technology and Primforce Technologies are participating in the project.

The Catalyst team estimates that vehicle-road-cloud connectivity could lead to a 30% reduction in traffic fatalities. Other potential societal benefits include an expansion in affordable mobility, as well as a safer and greener road transportation system. The team also believes its work will help build trust in network and communication technology.

Another broad goal is to foster the development of interoperable ecosystems. This change could unlock new markets in smart infrastructure and green technology. The project could help spur a shift from “single-point investment by automakers" to "cross-industry investment sharing for ecological co-construction," concludes Zheng Jieying.