SoftBank 5G to power Honda connected cars

Telecom operator SoftBank said its forthcoming 5G trials and launches are likely to power Honda connected cars in Japan.

SoftBank will install experiential 5G base stations at Honda R&D’s Takasu Proving Ground (in Takasu-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido, Japan) as part of their strategy to use 5G in connected cars.

Honda and SoftBank will create a 5G environment by utilizing Honda’s closed test course (Takasu Proving Ground) and work to develop the following technologies. The 5G trials are expected from the financial year 2018.

SoftBank said the development of 5G technologies and on-board antennas will enable a stable handover of base stations for communication by a vehicle moving at high-speed.

SoftBank is also aiming for the development of 5G technologies to secure data sending / receiving performance in areas with a weak signal as well as data processing technologies.

SoftBank and Honda said their research project is aimed to strengthen connected car technologies in order to offer new experiences and value by connecting mobility products, primarily cars, and various other things.