Mass production of cellular V2X communication module

Fifth generation (5G) mobile communications technology featuring ultra-fast speeds, ultra-low latency and mass connectivity is expected to play a big role within future social infrastructure. Since 2019, the development of communication environment and related technologies has progressed around the world and efforts for social implementation should continue to grow.

The most prominent use for the next-generation communications system, and a potential killer application, is connected vehicles given they will contribute to autonomous driving that is both safe and comfortable. Cellular V2X, or C-V2X, will be a key platform here in China, cellular V2X is already deployed using fourth-generation mobile communications (4G LTE) in anticipation of 5G-based services.

As for commercial application of cellular V2X as a platform for V2X, or vehicle-to-everything, connectivity – including vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communication – it is fair to say market size and the stage of network development make China a world leader.

In responding to these market developments, Alps Alpine has developed the UMCC1 Series Cellular V2X All In One Communication Module for the China market, commencing mass production in July 2020. The module, compliant with 3GPP1 Release 14, is an all in one type with standard inclusion of an application processor and V2X protocol stack, reducing the burden on the host CPU for the onboard unit.

The UMCC1 Series also has its own built-in power circuit (PMIC2), facilitating system expansion of onboard units from simple to advanced functionality on a single platform. A Cellular V2X Communication Module Evaluation Board & Kit is available for use by end product manufacturers to evaluate products and will help to reduce the development and evaluation workload in unit design.

The module is ‘made in-market’ for China, jointly developed with Gohigh Data Networks Technology of the Datang Telecom Technology & Industry Group following the signing of a strategic partnership agreement in November 2018. Included in IMT-20203 demonstration testing, the module realises high interconnectivity and reliability.

Deploying the module will allow Alps Alpine to speed up development of 5G modules for China and for the global market and to further enhance product capabilities in the connectivity domain. In addition, Alps Alpine will strive to realise comfortable user experiences within next-generation mobility society by integrating this core technology solution for the Digital Cabin framework with human-machine interfaces (HMI) and sensing technology.