Embedded SIM
PerformanceAverage price
Inclus dans un pack connectivité (abonnement requis après période d'essai)
The embedded SIM, often called an eSIM, is an electronic chip soldered directly onto the motherboard of a vehicle's infotainment system. Unlike a traditional removable SIM card, it is permanent and cannot be removed. Its role is to provide autonomous cellular connectivity to the vehicle, allowing it to connect to mobile networks (4G/LTE, or even 5G) without requiring a smartphone or external device. This technology is the cornerstone of the connected car services ecosystem. It enables the vehicle to communicate continuously with the manufacturer's servers and third-party service providers. Thanks to it, the driver benefits from navigation with real-time traffic information, access to online applications (weather, music streaming), and crucial safety features such as automatic emergency calling (eCall). It is also essential for Over-The-Air (OTA) software updates, which can improve not only the multimedia system but also the vehicle's performance and safety. The embedded SIM thus transforms the car into a connected, upgradable, and intelligent object.
Benefits
- ✓Permanent connectivity for online services and real-time navigation.
- ✓Activation of advanced safety features such as emergency call (eCall) and vehicle tracking.
- ✓Enables Over-The-Air (OTA) software updates to improve the vehicle.
- ✓Creation of an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot for passengers.
Learn more
Built-in SIM Card
The built-in SIM card, more technically known as the eSIM (embedded SIM), has become a standard component in the electronic architecture of modern vehicles. Far from being a mere gadget, it serves as the vehicle's true passport to the digital world, paving the way for a multitude of services that enhance safety, comfort, and even, indirectly, overall driving performance.
What is a built-in SIM card and how does it work?
Unlike the SIM card you insert into your smartphone, the built-in SIM card is an electronic chip soldered directly onto the vehicle's circuit board during manufacturing. It can neither be changed nor removed. This chip is pre-programmed to connect to mobile data networks (typically 4G LTE and increasingly 5G). Its main advantage is its permanence and robustness, ensuring a stable and reliable connection independent of the driver's phone. It is activated by the manufacturer and linked to the vehicle's chassis number, allowing for centralized management of services and subscriptions.
The tangible benefits of onboard connectivity
The integration of an eSIM radically transforms the in-cabin experience. Its applications can be grouped into several main categories:
- Infotainment and Navigation: This is the most visible use case. The SIM card allows the GPS navigation system to receive real-time traffic information, suggest alternative routes to avoid traffic jams, and display points of interest (service stations, charging points, restaurants) with up-to-date data. It also provides access to audio streaming services, web radios, or weather applications directly on the central touchscreen.
- Safety and Assistance: This is its most crucial function. The SIM card is essential for the eCall automatic emergency call system, which has been mandatory on all new vehicles in Europe since 2018. In the event of a severe accident, the vehicle automatically contacts emergency services by transmitting its geolocation. It also enables roadside assistance services in the event of a breakdown or vehicle tracking in case of theft.
- Comfort and Remote Control: Via a dedicated mobile app, the owner can interact with the vehicle remotely. They can check the fuel level or battery charge, lock/unlock the doors, or pre-heat or pre-cool the cabin before getting in.
- Wi-Fi Hotspot: The car's connection can be shared with passengers. The vehicle transforms into a Wi-Fi access point, allowing everyone to connect their smartphone, tablet, or laptop to the internet.
The link between the built-in SIM card and performance
Although it does not increase engine power, the built-in SIM card impacts the overall performance of the driving experience. The main driver is Over-The-Air (OTA) software updates. Thanks to the permanent connection, manufacturers can deploy software updates that go beyond GPS mapping. These updates can optimize:
- Engine or battery management (on electric and hybrid vehicles), improving efficiency and sometimes even responsiveness.
- Automatic transmission algorithms for smoother or faster gear shifts.
- Driver assistance settings (adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist), making their operation more efficient and safer.
In short, the built-in SIM card makes the vehicle upgradeable. A car can thus see its performance and features improve over time without any dealership intervention. Furthermore, navigation optimized by real-time data enables faster and more fuel-efficient journeys, which constitutes a form of everyday performance.
Business model: initial complimentary period followed by a subscription
Generally, the connected services enabled by the built-in SIM card are provided free of charge during a trial period (ranging from 1 to 3 years depending on the manufacturer) upon the purchase of a new vehicle. After this period, access to these services, particularly data for real-time navigation or the Wi-Fi hotspot, becomes a paid service via an annual or monthly subscription. However, safety functions such as eCall remain active free of charge for the entire lifespan of the vehicle.
Associated equipment
Connected services
Connected services refer to all embedded features and applications in a vehicle that rely on an internet connection to operate. Thanks to an integrated SIM card (eSIM) or a smartphone's shared connection, the car becomes a smart, communicating object. These services radically transform the driving experience by offering features in several key areas: navigation, safety, comfort, and maintenance. Examples include GPS navigation with real-time traffic information, online points of interest search, and weather forecasts. In terms of safety, they include automatic emergency calling (e-Call) in the event of an accident and roadside assistance. Remote control via a dedicated mobile application is one of the most appreciated aspects, allowing users to lock/unlock doors, pre-condition the cabin, or locate their vehicle. Finally, connected services facilitate maintenance with remote diagnostics, maintenance alerts, and 'Over-The-Air' (OTA) software updates, which continuously improve the vehicle without visiting a garage. These technologies have become a major selling point and an essential purchasing criterion for many motorists.
OTA Updates
OTA (Over-The-Air) updates represent the remote distribution of software, firmware, and new features for vehicles via a wireless network (cellular or Wi-Fi). A true revolution inspired by smartphones, this technology transforms the car from a static product into an upgradeable platform. Instead of mandatory dealership visits for manual updates, manufacturers can now deploy security patches, optimize powertrain efficiency, improve Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) algorithms, or enrich the infotainment system across their entire fleet. There are two main types: SOTA (Software Over-The-Air) for non-critical applications such as navigation or multimedia, and FOTA (Firmware Over-The-Air) for essential vehicle components, such as the Engine Control Unit (ECU) or the Battery Management System (BMS). The process is designed to be simple and secure: the driver receives a notification and can choose to initiate the installation when the vehicle is parked, ensuring the car remains high-performing, safe, and up to date throughout its lifecycle.
Real-Time Traffic Navigation
Real-time traffic navigation is an advanced GPS guidance system that integrates live traffic conditions to optimize routes. Unlike traditional GPS systems based on static map data, this system uses a data connection (via an integrated SIM card or connected smartphone) to continuously receive information on traffic jams, accidents, roadwork, and other disruptions. By analyzing this data, the algorithm dynamically recalculates the proposed route to suggest faster and smoother alternatives. It also provides a much more accurate Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) by taking current conditions into account. This technology relies on various sources, including anonymized data from other vehicles (crowdsourcing), road sensors, and official traffic information services. It transforms the navigation system from a simple map guide into a true proactive driving assistant, capable of saving valuable time and reducing the stress of unexpected road events. Today, it is a key feature of modern infotainment and connectivity packages.
In-vehicle Wi-Fi hotspot
The in-vehicle Wi-Fi hotspot is an advanced technology that transforms your vehicle into a mobile internet access point. Integrating a dedicated modem and a SIM card (physical or eSIM) directly into the car's electronic architecture, this system offers connectivity far superior to simply tethering a smartphone. Its main advantage lies in its external antenna, optimized to capture 4G LTE and 5G networks with maximum efficiency, even when the vehicle is in motion or in areas of weak coverage. Once the signal is captured, the hotspot generates a secure Wi-Fi network inside the cabin, allowing multiple passengers to simultaneously connect their smartphones, tablets, computers, or gaming consoles. This service, which requires a specific data subscription with a partner carrier of the manufacturer, has become a pillar of the modern automotive experience. It does more than just offer entertainment; it is essential for the operation of connected services, over-the-air (OTA) software updates, and real-time navigation, making every journey an interactive and productive experience.
4G LTE Connection
The 4G LTE (Long Term Evolution) connection is a wireless mobile communication technology that allows vehicles to access ultra-high-speed internet. Integrated directly into the car's electronic architecture via a dedicated SIM card (often an eSIM), it transforms the vehicle into a true connected object. This permanent connectivity is the cornerstone of modern connected services offered by manufacturers. It is not limited to providing internet access to passengers, but powers many essential vehicle features. This includes GPS navigation with real-time traffic information, remote software updates (Over-The-Air), and access to infotainment applications such as music or video streaming. In addition, the 4G LTE connection is crucial for safety functions, such as the automatic emergency call system (eCall) which contacts emergency services in the event of an accident, and for remote control services via a smartphone app (locking, geolocation, cabin pre-conditioning). It represents a major advancement, improving comfort, safety, and the overall driving experience.