We live in a fast-paced, digital world and people everywhere are seeking ways to optimize their time and simplify their lives. The rise of the Internet of Things (IoT) and modern connected car technology are providing some exciting possibilities to do just that. The average American spends more than 100 minutes in the car per day. Imagine the possibilities if your car could automatically reduce traffic congestion and speed up your commute while making dinner reservations and finding an open parking spot at your destination? It’s coming!
Gartner predicts Internet-connected things will reach 26 billion units by 2020, compared with 900 million in 2009. In the same time frame, 75% of cars shipped globally will include the hardware needed to connect to the Internet. And many drivers are already installing aftermarket connected car solutions like Vinli – simply plug it into a standard port under the dash, download the app, and you’re ready to roll. Your car will be equipped with modern telematics, just like that.
Things get really interesting when secure telematics systems start interacting with other vehicles, intelligent road signs, traffic lights, smart homes and smart city solutions. For instance, the Gemalto-enabled Gridlock solution pulls data from sensors and automatically controls traffic lights in real time to ease congestion and improve traffic flow. Connected cars can remotely adjust home thermostats as you depart and return to your home, improving energy efficiency, comfort, and convenience. Data is sent via smart meters to utility companies who can then optimize production to save energy and better meet consumer demands. All of these technologies are interconnected, interdependent, and growing as the Internet of Things expands.
However, hurdles still exist. People first need to trust that connected cars and smart city technology are reliable and that they are protected against cyber attacks and identity theft. They need to have confidence that hackers will not be able to steal personal information from their connected devices. Connected cars come with their own set of security fears, like, can a would-be thief be prohibited from remotely turning on the ignition and stealing a vehicle?
Next week we’ll be attending TU-Automotive Detroit where the auto industry will flex its innovation muscles and showcase how the latest and greatest connected car technology is driving us all toward a world of new mobility. If you’ll be at the show, check out the panel discussion on June 3 at 4:00 PM entitled “Cybersecurity: Hackers Take Control of the Wheel.” Gemalto’s IoT security expert, Laetitia Jay, will share her insights and knowledge on how specific solutions, services and design strategies are helping secure technology at the right level for each use case. And please visit our booth #M181 where you can meet with a Gemalto executive and learn more about how our M2M modules, MIMs, platforms and services are pushing the next wave of secure, reliable connectivity solutions. Contact us to reserve a briefing appointment. We hope to see you in Detroit!
