McLaren goes 5G

FORMULA 1-DERIVED SOFTWARE CAPABILITY COUPLED WITH FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND 5G EDGE ANTENNA HARDWARE ALLOWS FOR REVOLUTIONARY CONNECTIVITY

And Performance

McLaren Applied has announced the development of a 5G intelligent edge antenna technology for a wide range of moving vehicle applications. Thanks to a smaller, lighter, yet equally durable design, the substantial benefits of the connectivity solution for rail are now available to a broad spectrum of operators and industries.

While existing connectivity solutions require complex installation, bulky additional hardware and a steady signal to function, McLaren Applied’s Halo 300 offers increased performance at lower cost and complexity. Installation and maintenance considerations are greatly reduced with dual modems built in, fewer cables, and no need for a separate router or access point. High quality hardware, including industry-leading Huber+Suhner antenna componentry, and reliable software proven over hundreds of races in the world’s most demanding racing series, ensures the technology is real-world ready.

The technology offers the flexibility and futureproofing necessary to take advantage of near-term developments in autonomous travel, software defined vehicles, and the Internet of Things. With edge computing, integrated eSIMs, the built-in power to support additional applications and a CANBUS interface, Halo 300 provides a connection not just to a fast and reliable data network, but to an exciting future of untold possibilities as well.

The combination of 5G edge computing antenna and unique connectivity software opens up a new realm of opportunities when it comes to cost savings, too. ‘Virtualising’ applications reduces the need for extra hardware onboard vehicles, unlocking new use cases with the power of 5G.

Originally developed for the pinnacle of motorsport, Formula 1, McLaren Applied’s patented Fleet Connect software is already deployed on fleets around the world to facilitate seamless high-speed passenger WiFi connections, as well as operator technology allows visible displays across the entire width of the windscreen for all passengers. BMW Panoramic Vision shows information that is relevant for the driver and passengers with a higher light intensity and contrast onto a dark-coated area at the lower edge of the windscreen. uplinks for operational, infrastructure, and safety purposes. Splitting data across networks in real time and reassembling it in the cloud en route to its destination, Fleet Connect increases bandwidth and data throughput, reduces blackspots while providing a consistent connectivity stream.

Moving vehicle applications, from mass transit to mining, could find remarkable time and cost savings in the provision of a reliable uplink for realtime remote monitoring, vehicle diagnostics, fleet optimisation, tracking, and freight management. A dependable high-bandwidth WiFi connection could, meanwhile, enable bus, light rail, tram, or boat passengers to enjoy more comfortable, productive journeys.