Harman International, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics focused on connected technologies for automotive, consumer and enterprise markets, unveiled a new ‘Dual-Mode V2X’ system, aimed at enhancing automotive safety. The flexible telematics system features both software and hardware and taps into DSRC (dedicated short range communication) and cellular (5G) Vehicle-to-Everything (C-V2X) networks, removing the guesswork for numerous safety system setups.

V2X communication refers to the compatible transfer of data between a connected vehicle and its surroundings, including other vehicles on the roadway, infrastructure and even pedestrians. Currently, there are two standards that support this communication: DSRC, which is based on Wireless LAN-like technology, and C-V2X, which is part of the 5G mobile network standard. However, the availability of both DSRC and C-V2X varies by region and can cause significant guesswork for automakers looking to launch V2X features, such as improved blind spot warnings, adaptive cruise control and traffic sign recognition. With the development of Harman’s dual-mode V2X system automakers can now leverage over-the-air commands to select which of the two standards will be implemented on each vehicle. As a result, this technology offers a cost-effective solution for automakers by eliminating compliance guesswork while improving road safety and enhancing overall user experience.

Ram Iyer, senior engineering director for Harman’s telematics business unit said, “DSRC and C-V2X will be critical in transforming network connectivity. Launching our Dual-Mode V2X system continues our commitment to offering key solutions that can better meet the demands of automakers looking to seamlessly implement more connected safety features. By leveraging our relationship with Samsung for mobile technology, as well as our already potent Telematics Control Unit  (TCU) technology, our offering provides automakers with the true flexibility needed, in order to support both modes without having to have custom solutions for each standard.”

Harman’s Dual-Mode V2X system will be demonstrated at TU-Automotive Detroit 2019, featuring exclusive software and hardware that can operate either with Harman’s Telematics Control Units (TCU) or standalone for vehicles that utilise separate TCUs. This dual-mode capability will be available for 2021 model-year vehicles and will support a growing set of safety and efficiency use cases.

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