MIT-WPU team develops 5G-integrated real-time vehicle data tracking system

With the ever-growing demand for logistics, commercial operations, and traffic management, there is an increasing need for efficient vehicle monitoring systems to ensure smoother operations that are fast, safe, and reliable. In a significant achievement in this direction, a team of professors and students at MIT World Peace University (MIT-WPU), Pune, has developed an advanced vehicle data tracking system, backed by 5G and the latest technologies, for real-time vehicle monitoring, safety, and enhanced operational efficiency.

The team, comprising Ashutosh Solanke, Malhar Jojare, Hrushikesh Kalamkar, and mentor Prof. Shweta Kukade, has secured a patent for the novel integration of 5G technology, real-time tracking, and enhanced safety features into vehicle data monitoring systems. This system will now enable fleet operators, automotive manufacturers, insurance companies, logistics firms, smart city planners, and others to benefit from its real-time tracking, geo-fencing, and emergency alert capabilities.

The MIT-WPU team is now focusing on commercializing the system through partnerships with automotive manufacturers, fleet management companies, and logistics firms. The goal is to integrate the system into both commercial and public sector vehicle fleets, enhancing their operational efficiency and safety. Furthermore, the team plans to explore consumer applications by developing a version for individual vehicle owners, which would offer enhanced security and tracking capabilities.

Speaking about the unique features and importance of the system, Prof. Shweta Kukade, Assistant Professor at MIT World Peace University said: “Traditional systems often lack the high-speed connectivity and precise location tracking necessary for modern applications. Our system leverages 5G technology and enhanced GPS/GLONASS accuracy, providing faster, more reliable tracking, making it invaluable for sectors like fleet management, logistics, insurance, and public transportation. We are also considering scaling the system for use in smart cities, potentially integrating it with IoT infrastructure for real-time urban mobility management, ensuring continuous product innovation and development.”

5G as a game-changer
The system overcomes the limitations of existing vehicle tracking systems that operate on 2G or 3G networks, which have limited data transfer speeds and reduced accuracy in pinpointing a vehicle’s location. The integration of 5G addresses issues such as delayed tracking data, unreliable connectivity in rural areas, and weaker precision. This is a game-changer, enabling real-time data transfer and reliable tracking, particularly in rural, remote, or challenging environments, with accurate and fast location tracking through technologies like GPS and GLONASS.

Additionally, the system includes geo-fencing, allowing for virtual boundaries to be set and providing alerts if vehicles leave designated areas. The emergency button feature enables immediate alerts in critical situations. The automatic switch to open Wi-Fi networks ensures that the system maintains connectivity even when 5G isn’t available. These improvements offer greater speed, precision, and safety compared to legacy systems that rely on 2G/3G networks with only GPS tracking.

The system is designed to automatically connect to authorized, open Wi-Fi networks, typically in public spaces, without breaching any legal or network boundaries. It does not access private or password-protected networks without permission. This feature ensures continuous connectivity, especially when vehicles enter areas where 5G signals may be weak or unavailable, all while respecting the integrity of secured networks.

With its cutting-edge technology and versatile applications, the MIT-WPU team’s vehicle data tracking system has the potential to bring a significant change in fleet management, logistics, and urban mobility.