Revving Up Connectivity: BMW Partners with Verizon for 5G Telematics in the US

Verizon Partners with KDDI to Provide Telematics Connectivity for BMW Group Vehicles in the U.S.

Verizon has joined forces with KDDI to provide telematics connectivity for new BMW, MINI, and other BMW Group vehicles designed for the U.S. market. This collaboration signifies a significant advancement, granting BMW Group vehicles direct cellular connectivity through Verizon’s 5G and LTE networks, thereby replacing or enhancing previous telematics arrangements for U.S.-bound cars. This partnership ensures that every new BMW, MINI, and other BMW Group model manufactured for the American market is equipped with this cutting-edge connectivity.

The connectivity process is facilitated through KDDI’s Global Communications Platform, a product of the Japanese carrier’s extensive experience working with automakers on connected car services. This platform enables BMW Group to oversee its own connectivity and data packets, rather than relinquishing control entirely to a carrier, with Verizon’s robust network responsible for transmitting the data.

Notably, the BMW Group vehicles are pioneering the use of Verizon’s nationwide 5G Standalone for Connected Vehicles offering. This network is built on a dedicated 5G core conforming to the 3GPP Release 16 standards, distinguishing it from conventional 4G infrastructure. This distinction is crucial for automakers aiming to leverage over-the-air updates, real-time diagnostics, and remote features that necessitate a network specifically tailored to accommodate them.

According to Daniel Lawson, senior vice president for global solutions at Verizon Business, the telematics services encompass firmware and map updates, subscription services, and comprehensive monitoring of the car’s health and the driver’s experience. The partnership already covers “almost” all new BMW Group production vehicles in the U.S., with plans for expansion as the relationship with KDDI evolves.

While network slicing is not currently utilized for the BMW rollout, Lawson indicated that the transition to 5G Standalone leaves the door open for this capability as the companies explore new use cases that add value for BMW and its customers. T-Mobile previously made inroads into the connected car sector with Magenta Drive for BMW’s iX and i4 electric vehicles in 2022, focusing on in-car connectivity rather than telematics. Verizon’s most substantial existing connected-vehicle partnership is with Volkswagen Group, providing connectivity services across VW’s brands, particularly within the Audi lineup.