Electronics Weekly
They have completed a test to integrate Intelsat satellites and Cubic³’s software platform. It was to show terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks linking to deliver always-on connectivity regardless of location.
“Our Memorandum of Understanding and successful test brings us closer to our vision of truly ubiquitous connectivity,” said Bruno Fromont, Intelsat Chief Technology Officer (pictured).
“By combining Intelsat’s satellite expertise with Cubic³’s innovative connectivity platform, we’re creating solutions that will keep vehicles connected anywhere in the world, enabling critical functions from broadband connectivity, diagnostics to eventually supporting autonomous driving capabilities.”
Specifically, the test featured Intelsat’s FlexMove Fleet product and the Cubic³ Cloud interface with a heavy vehicle.
GEO then LEO
The planned integration will initially use geostationary (GEO) satellites for applications such as fleet management, telematics, and predictive maintenance.
The satellite connectivity system will evolve, however, as new low Earth orbit (LEO) constellations launch, says Intelsat. These will support higher-bandwidth use cases. Examples cited include high-definition map downloads, and cloud-based vehicle diagnostics using digital twins.
Software-defined vehicles
For its part, Cubic³ highlighted the role of software-defined vehicles:
“Our work with Intelsat is foundational to delivering on the promise of software-defined vehicles,” said Nick Power, Chief Technology Officer at Cubic³. “Car manufacturers need global, high-speed, always-on connectivity to transform into software-first entities and meet evolving consumer mobility demands. This test demonstrates how our technologies can work together to enable that future.”
Image: Intelsat (top), Kymeta (bottom)
See also: John Deere steers towards SpaceX for satellite rural connectivity
