Verizon and KDDI will combine assets to provide 5G telematics connectivity to new BMW Group vehicles running in the U.S. The work will use Verizon’s 5G standalone (SA) and 4G LTE network supporting KDDI’s Global Communications Platform to power BMW’s Connected Drive system within those vehicles, services that include digital infotainment, remote, and application support. This includes connectivity for BMW, Mini, and other BMW Group vehicles manufactured for the U.S. market, providing the auto manufacturer with complete control of the connectivity and data transmitted over Verizon’s network. “Verizon is committed to delivering seamless connectivity for customers,” Verizon Business CEO Kyle Malady noted in a statement. “Our collaboration with BMW Group and KDDI prioritizes innovation and capability to advance the connected experience for drivers across the U.S.” Verizon had previously linked with KDDI to provide similar services to Sony and Honda’s Afeela electric vehicle joint venture, which was discontinued earlier this year. The effort appears to have usurped T-Mobile US as BMW’s in-car connectivity provider. BMW had been offering 5G-based in-car connectivity through T-Mobile US for vehicles produced beginning in the 2022 model year and embedded with a “personal eSIM.” Verizon noted the BMW agreement was significant as it’s the first to tap the carrier’s nationwide 5G SA network to support connected vehicles. This includes use of its 5G core and 3GPP Release 16 5G SA standards. The carrier has been slowly introducing services that can take advantage of that 5G SA network, including enterprise-related services like fixed-wireless access (FWA) using network slicing technology. Former CEO Hans Vestberg noted last year that the carrier’s 5G SA core was supporting between 60% and 70% of Verizon’s 5G wireless network traffic. Comments