Is V2V the Next M2M?

The IoT revolution we are currently experiencing was born of machine-to-machine (M2M) communication, which has unlocked immeasurable capabilities for both businesses and consumers. In the coming years, it is expected that this same communication will become near-ubiquitous on the roadways via vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) capabilities. 

V2V works on a simple concept: When cars with V2V capabilities are within range, they are able to connect on a low-latency, dedicated short-range communications (DSRC) network to communicate with each other. Last year, Cadillac made headlines with the introduction of V2V capabilities in its CTS line, which were designed to address driver safety. 

In the CTS line, equipped vehicles can transmit and receive up to 1,000 messages per second from cars up to 1,000 feet away. Such information includes driver speed, braking, road conditions, among other details. By 2020, the manufacturer will equip all vehicles with V2V capabilities. Toyota and Lexus have plans to integrate the technology to select models in 2021.

The benefits of V2V as a standalone technology are clear, but IoT can unlock its true potential by offering more robust data that can proactively prevent dangerous situations on the roadway. An example of the power of this integration is the automated emergency braking system, which is triggered by sensors that gauge a vehicle’s position and speed compared to other vehicles. In emergency situations, the vehicle would automatically apply brakes if the driver has not yet engaged them. And with IoT-enabled diagnostic data about brake ware, drivers can always ensure that the vehicle is prepared, should an emergency situation arise. A  recent study¹ by NHTSA reported that connected vehicle technology could handle roughly 80% of crash scenarios involving non-impaired drivers.

The key obstacle to V2V saturation is, of course, adoption. The safety V2V can provide is only as strong as the number of vehicles that can receive it. In the meantime, it is critical for manufacturers building systems to ensure the highest level of safety. Integrating V2V with expanding IoT capabilities can help achieve that goal.

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¹ http://www.nhtsa.gov/About+NHTSA/Press+Releases/2014/USDOT+to+Move+Forward+with+Vehicle-to-Vehicle+Communication+Technology+for+Light+Vehicles