Verizon’s 5G and LTE networks will be plugged into KDDI’s Global Communications Platform to provide connectivity for new BMW, MINI, and other BMW Group vehicles made for the US market. It will serve up cellular connectivity directly to BMW Group vehicles, powering BMW Connected Drive and other digital infotainment, remote, app and telematics services. Verizon’s has an existing relationship with KDDI, which provides IoT services through its platform to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) in “demanding” industries. The platform enables a “programmable connected experience” for BMW Group, we’re told, which is supposed to give it control of the connectivity and data packets going through Verizon’s 5G network. The service is available for all newly manufactured BMW Group vehicles in the US, and the vehicles are the first to be connected to Verizon’s 5G Standalone for Connected Vehicles offering, which uses its 5G core and 3GPP Release 16 industry standards for 5G standalone, we’re told. "Verizon is committed to delivering seamless connectivity for customers. Our collaboration with BMW Group and KDDI prioritizes innovation and capability to advance the connected experience for drivers across the US,” said Kyle Malady, CEO, Verizon Business. Satoshi Oishi, President & CEO, KDDI America added: "At KDDI, we are honored to support BMW Group’s next generation connected vehicle services with our Global Communications Platform. With over two decades of experience in connected car telecommunications, we understand the critical importance of performance and reliability. Together with BMW Group and Verizon, we are committed to delivering an exceptional connected driving experience to customers across North America." Connectivity is becoming commonplace on new car models. Last month rival US operator AT&T extended its partnership with EV maker Rivian which involved expanding the content offering on its infotainment platform. Rivian’s new motor, the R2, is described as a software-defined vehicle (SDV), and