Vancouver-based Sierra Wireless is a contributing member in the future of automobiles thanks to their alliance with German luxury car maker Audi. The latter has been working to integrate Sierra’s AirPrime wireless modules into what they hope will eventually be an LTE-connected infotainment system. We had previously discussed Audi’s knack for being ahead of the curve with regards to the integration of wireless technology in car making, however Sierra’s LTE modules will take things to another level.
The project is still considered to be in the development and testing stage, with actual driving trails beginning in late 2011. Since the two parties began their collaboration, the infotainment systems have been displayed at several large media events, including this year’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas.
Although the technology is not likely to be seen on dealer floors in the near future, it is definitely something that other automakers will be looking to integrate moving forward. With the aggressive rollout of LTE networks across Canada, harnessing the most powerful network possible in our vehicles will be a make or break element for many consumers who are looking to buy in the increasingly competitive auto market.
A diagram of how the M2M (machine to machine) system integration is included below.