Electronics manufacturer LG’s components unit unveiled what it claimed is the world’s first 5G communications module with satellite connectivity for automobiles, providing a boost to the software defined vehicle and autonomous driving segment.
LG Innotek stated the Automotive 5G Communication Module is integrated with satellite connectivity over 5G broadband with a bandwidth of approximately 30MHz, to enable high-speed communications at all times.
It explained the module works as a component installed inside a vehicle to enable data communications with network infrastructure, such as satellites and base stations, using 5G.
Previously, communications modules with satellite operated on narrowband channels with a bandwidth of about 0.2MHz, limiting data transmission speeds to several hundred kilobits per second, said LG Innotek.
This meant such modules were only suitable for low-volume applications such as text messaging. The limited capacity was essentially not fit for purpose for automakers’ “requirements for advanced autonomous driving”.
Use cases enabled by the new breakthrough apparently include the ability for vehicles to receive large data files at any time, maintain high-speed communications on the road through satellite in remote, rural or areas damaged by accidents or natural disasters and enhanced vehicle performance through more accurate location information.
$800M business
Through LG Innotek’s new breakthrough, the company claims that even when disconnected from terrestrial base stations, the module maintains continuous communication via satellite.
It added it has been working with vehicular communications technologies built up since 2005, developing software and radio frequency circuits that minimise signal interference and antennas that enhance data communications.
Byaeng kuk Yoo, head of LG Innotek’s automotive components unit, said it was committed to developing vehicular communications modules into a business worth $800 million.
The company plans to mass produce the module by the first quarter of 2026 and is actively promoting the product to carmakers in North America and Japan.