Connectivity, a key lever for the mobility industry
04/10/2023
Connectivity is an unstoppable trend in the mobility industry. More and more vehicles, bicycles and scooters are fitted with sensors and wireless technology…
Connectivity is an unstoppable trend in the mobility industry. More and more vehicles, bicycles and scooters are fitted with sensors and wireless technology that allow data to be collected and shared.
The advantages of connectivity
Connectivity offers mobility manufacturers several advantages. The first is improved safety: the data gathered by sensors can be used to detect potential collisions or falls and alert the driver or user; according to a study by the Global Road Safety Summit, connected vehicles could cut the number of traffic accidents by 20%. The second is performance optimisation, adjusting engine power or brake resistance, with the potential to reduce fuel consumption by up to 10%. And the third is new features, such as navigation services, assistance in the event of an accident or traffic information.
The challenges of connectivity
It also raises some challenges. Collecting data creates privacy and security concerns: manufacturers have to find ways to gather data securely and in a way that respects users' privacy, a concern shared by many of them. Cost is another challenge, since adding connectivity means an extra expense that has to be absorbed without making the product too expensive. And then there is compatibility: vehicles, bicycles and scooters need to be compatible with existing networks and services and with the latest technologies.
New business models
Beyond the advantages and the challenges, connectivity offers the chance to create new business models, such as data-based subscription services. Digitalisation is a significant challenge: manufacturers must collect and store data securely and efficiently, protect users' privacy, manage the data effectively and offer services and features based on it.
Connectivity is a key lever for the mobility industry. Manufacturers that embrace it will be in a strong position to improve the safety, performance and functionality of their products, create new subscription-based business models and enhance the user experience.