The 5G Automotive Association (5GAA) recently held a series of live demonstrations in Sacramento, highlighting advancements in connected mobility technologies for the United States. The event brought together major automotive and technology companies, including Audi, Autocrypt, Cohda Wireless, Ettifos, Indra, Microsec, Qualcomm, Valeo, Verizon, Volkswagen, BMW, HARMAN, Viasat and Fraunhofer. Partners from the public sector such as the Federal Highway Administration’s Saxton Transportation Operations Laboratory (STOL) and Kapsch TrafficCom also participated.
According to 5GAA Chairman Christoph Voigt: “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”.
One of the main features was connected tolling. Vehicles approaching simulated toll zones communicated securely with roadside units to complete transactions without stopping. These demonstrations used both Network V2X—leveraging Verizon’s Edge Transportation Exchange and STOL’s CV-MEC—and Direct C-V2X at 5.9GHz frequencies. Companies like Audi, Indra and Cohda Wireless showcased integrated solutions aimed at improving efficiency while supporting safer traffic flow.
Satellite connectivity was another focus area. BMW, HARMAN, Qualcomm, Viasat and Fraunhofer demonstrated non-terrestrial network (NTN) satellite technologies by conducting a live bi-directional voice call over Narrowband IoT networks and showing satellite-enabled communications for vehicles. This technology is designed to keep vehicles operational even in remote areas where traditional networks may not reach.
The event also featured safety applications enabled by C-V2X technology. HARMAN, Miovision and Qualcomm presented systems that provide real-time traffic signal information and road hazard alerts to drivers. AI-powered roadside sensors were able to detect unequipped vehicles or other road users and share this data via Direct C-V2X channels to support critical safety services.
These demonstrations are part of 5GAA’s broader effort to speed up deployment of connected vehicle technologies across the U.S., illustrating how seamless connectivity can be achieved with current innovations.
