Verizon and University of Michigan collaborate to develop 5G solutions for autonomous and connected vehicles

According to foreign media reports, Verizon is working with Mcity at the University of Michigan to test various 5G solutions, aiming to use 5G ultra-wideband networks to improve traffic safety and advance the development of autonomous vehicles and smart cities. 5G-connected cameras are installed at every intersection on the Mcity test track to help identify traffic and pedestrian patterns and prevent collisions. Connected vehicles are equipped with sensors that can communicate with each other to avoid accidents. Cameras are connected to traffic light signals to help protect people walking or riding.

Eric Raaamoto, chief technology officer of EconoLite, said: "We installed signal controllers at Mcity intersections to provide signal phase and timing data to the 5G network. Using 5G can help drivers detect danger in advance and prevent collisions by changing traffic signals."

5G service has the advantages of high bandwidth, low latency, and the ability to connect hundreds of devices in a relatively small area. If every car passing through an intersection can receive and transmit information from other vehicles and street light cameras, other vehicles will be notified when a traffic light turns red or the car in front suddenly stops. Verizon 's 5G Ultra Wideband network transmits data faster than the blink of an eye, allowing self-driving cars to brake faster than humans.

The huge bandwidth, ultra-high speed and ultra-low latency of Verizon's 5G Ultra Wideband network can help self-driving cars better communicate with other vehicles, traffic lights, pedestrians and emergency vehicles, thereby avoiding accidents and reducing casualties. Tami Erwin, executive vice president and CEO of Verizon Business Group, said, "5G can change people's lives by making commuting more convenient and safer. Cars can communicate in almost real time through sensors on streets and traffic lights, share road and weather conditions instantly, and warn of dangerous situations ahead."

“Before deploying autonomous vehicles on public streets and highways, it is critical to test new technologies in a safe and controlled environment,” said Greg McGuire, deputy director of Mcity. “We are allowing companies testing at Mcity access to Verizon’s 5G network in the hope that they will be able to improve existing technologies and develop new applications that make our roads safer.”