BMW Group and satellite communications firm Viasat have unveiled what they claim is the world’s first satellite-connected vehicle emergency messaging system in a move that could prove a breakthrough for road safety. Showcased in Paris last week during a live demonstration hosted by the 5G Automotive Association (5GAA), the innovation highlights how cars can now […]
BMW Group and satellite communications firm Viasat have unveiled what they claim is the world’s first satellite-connected vehicle emergency messaging system in a move that could prove a breakthrough for road safety.
Showcased in Paris last week during a live demonstration hosted by the 5G Automotive Association (5GAA), the innovation highlights how cars can now communicate via satellite as well as traditional mobile networks—hailing a new era of the ‘always-connected’ vehicle.
The demo hinges on so-called direct-to-device (D2D) technology, which enables vehicles to seamlessly switch between cellular and non-terrestrial (satellite) networks.
It means that even in remote or rural areas where mobile signals are weak or absent, drivers could still receive critical updates such as extreme weather alerts, hazard warnings, or place emergency calls.
Viasat, whose satellite network already powers D2D trials in Brazil, India and the Middle East, sees this development as pivotal for both developed and emerging markets.
“Passengers could make emergency calls from areas outside of cellular coverage. Vehicles could send automated alerts and provide their location after a collision,” said Kevin Cohen, vice president of Direct to Device Strategy at Viasat.
In many territories – from rural blackspots to desert highways – connectivity blackspots remain a concern for motorists and emergency responders, and so this breakthrough could help save lives.
Fleet operators may benefit too, with the potential for real-time vehicle tracking even in areas beyond the reach of terrestrial networks.
The system relies on automotive grade eSIMs embedded in vehicle antennas, making the switch between networks invisible to drivers.
The impact goes beyond safety: the tech also paves the way for better navigation, smarter traffic systems, and enhanced driver communication as part of the broader 5G-V2X (vehicle-to-everything) movement.
Mass adoption is still a few years off, but according to the 5GAA’s 2030 roadmap, the first market-ready satellite-connected vehicles could roll out by 2027
