Global Automakers Concerned About Expanded Wi-Fi in 5 GHz

The Association of Global Automakers (Global Automakers), which is an industry group representing car manufacturers, expressed concern that the FCC’s proposal to open 195 MHz of spectrum in the 5 GHz band for unlicensed Wi-Fi could compromise the integrity of new vehicle-to vehicle (V2V) accident-prevention systems using the 5.9 GHz band.

“Automakers are expending significant resources and effort to develop V2V safety technologies because of the potential to significantly reduce automobile crash fatalities, injuries, and congestion on our highways,” said Michael Cammisa, Global Automakers’ Director of Safety.   “There is no room for error when it comes to motor vehicle safety and we want to make sure that the FCC initiative will not interfere with the anticipated benefits that V2V communication systems could deliver.”

The Association noted that ten major automakers and numerous technology providers have participated in a V2V pilot study in Ann Arbor, Michigan based by the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Connected Vehicle Research Program.

http://www.globalautomakers.org