5GAA: How Will Connected Cars Transform American Roads?

On 5 February, the 5G Automotive Association (5GAA) showed off its suite of next-generation technologies to the world in a public demonstration.

From satellite voice calls to automated tolling and real-time hazard alerts, the 5GAA is hoping that its new innovations will come to shape the future of connected mobility across the US.

The association hosted the Conference “Advancing Connected Mobility in California: C-V2X and Connected Vehicle Infrastructure,” with a keynote feature from Toks Omishakin, California’s 4th Secretary of Transportation. 

5GAA Chairman Christoph Voigt, says: “The Sacramento demonstrations represent an important milestone for connected mobility in the United States.

“Seeing these technologies in action underscores how our members are delivering practical, interoperable solutions that enhance safety, connectivity and mobility for drivers and communities.”

Streamlined tolling with C-V2X

Connected tolling is a highlight. Vehicles communicate with roadside units to complete transactions automatically, showing how tolling can be faster and safer. 

5GAA members & partners include:

• Audi
  
• Autocrypt
  
• Cohda Wireless
  
• Ettifos
  
• Indra
  
• Microsec
  
• Qualcomm
  
• Valeo
  
• Verizon
  
• Volkswagen
  
• FHWA Saxton Transportation Operations Laboratory (STOL)
  
• Kapsch TrafficCom

Verizon’s Edge Transportation Exchange integrates Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC) and 5G with STOL’s CV-MEC for Network V2X tolling. 

Direct C-V2X 5.9GHz-based solutions allow vehicles to communicate directly with infrastructure. Audi, Indra, Cohda Wireless and Microsec demonstrate secure tolling, while Valeo combines CV-MEC and Kapsch systems for seamless transactions.

Real-time data lets vehicles adjust speed and anticipate toll plazas, reducing congestion. It also provides a foundation for future features such as dynamic pricing or lane-specific tolling.

Satellite links extend coverage

Beyond terrestrial networks, non-terrestrial networks (NTN) keep vehicles connected in remote areas. 

BMW, HARMAN, Qualcomm, Viasat and Fraunhofer show satellite-enabled communications, including a live bi-directional voice call over Narrowband IoT.

Telcos can combine 5G with satellite links to deliver continuous coverage for telematics, fleet management, infotainment and emergency services. 

NTN ensures vehicles remain fully operational where traditional networks fail, reducing gaps that could affect safety and operations.

Safety and awareness in real time

C-V2X technologies improve safety and awareness. 

HARMAN, Miovision, and Qualcomm demonstrate real-time traffic signals, hazard alerts and AI-enabled roadside sensors sharing information about unequipped vehicles and vulnerable road users.

Telco networks allow this data to reach vehicles instantly, enabling automated systems to respond faster than human drivers. 

Edge computing reduces latency, making the system more reliable. 

Connected vehicles, roadside sensors and integrated networks create a mobility ecosystem where safety and efficiency coexist.

The Sacramento demonstrations underline 5GAA’s goal to accelerate deployment of connected vehicle technology. 

Christoph says, “Seeing these technologies in action underscores how our members are delivering practical, interoperable solutions that enhance safety, connectivity and mobility for drivers and communities.”

These events show that infrastructure, networks and vehicles can work together in real time, turning 5G and satellite capabilities into operational systems. 

Telcos are central, providing the platforms that make automated tolling, remote coverage and safety-critical communications possible.