Magna Joins Sweden’s NorthStar 5G Network for ADAS

Magna inks a deal to join NorthStar – Telia Sweden and Ericsson’s 5G innovation program for industrial enterprises – whereby the telecommunications partnership has built a dedicated, private 5G network at Magna’s test track so the company can test its Advanced Driver Assistance System solutions in vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-everything connectivity.

As part of NorthStar, Magna will have access to 5G millimeter wave (mmWave) technology, enabling low latency gigabit speeds and seamless connectivity for new ADAS trials. Additionally, the use of mmWave technology enables ongoing research into joint sensing and communication systems.

"By utilizing the latest advancements in mobile networks, we are able to accelerate the automotive domain by offering sensor enhancements and as a result offer more capable and competitive ADAS products,” says Bill Snider, President of Electronics.

“Our focus is not only on meeting challenging technical requirements but also on developing products that can help anticipate critical situations to prevent accidents, ultimately making the roads safer for all.”

Magna’s test track will feature the 5G network, delivering gigabit data speeds and ultra-low latency. Leveraging the 26GHz frequency band and 400MHz bandwidth, this network is crucial for Magna’s driving automation and driver support systems, which rely on real-time data from vehicle sensors. Fast network speeds and quick response times are essential for timely alerts to drivers, preventing accidents and minimizing their impact.

NorthStar’s 5G network is powered by Ericsson’s dual-mode 5G Core, which connects to Telia’s existing public 5G network. This interconnectivity will enable Magna to benefit from high-speed connectivity across large geographical areas.

Despite recent setbacks to ADAS technology and investments, prospects around the technology remain optimistic. By 2035, market analysts project that ADAS technologies could yield $300 billion to $400 billion in revenue for legacy automakers and systems manufacturers.

Magna’s ADAS technology supports driver safety by effectively reducing the risk of serious accidents or preventing them altogether by controlling steering, brakes and acceleration. These advanced technologies are crucial to future autonomous driving and new mobility solutions.