Tata, Kia and Mahindra — all three car makers have either announced or teased their next car. Tata has recently unveiled its much-awaited Sierra, Kia announced the new Seltos and Mahindra XEV 9S has been announced too. While all three cars are feature-loaded and offer a host of cutting-edge technologies like triple-screen setup, ATMOS speakers, etc, they also come with connected car technology with 5G connectivity for advanced connected features. For buyers, this changes how navigation, infotainment, safety systems, and software updates work in everyday use.
What 5G connectivity in cars actually means
5G connectivity in a car refers to an embedded cellular module that allows the vehicle to stay connected to high-speed mobile networks without relying on a smartphone hotspot. This connection powers the car’s infotainment system, connected services, and cloud-based features. Unlike 4G, 5G offers higher data speeds, lower latency, and better stability, especially when multiple screens and apps are running at the same time.
In the Tata Sierra, 5G connectivity is integrated into its iRA connected-car platform, enabling cloud services and remote vehicle functions. The Mahindra XEV 9S uses a Qualcomm Snapdragon platform with native 5G support to run its triple-screen dashboard and app ecosystem. The new-generation Kia Seltos supports advanced connected features and large displays that rely on constant data access.
Real-world benefits for navigation and infotainment
For users, the most visible impact of 5G is in navigation and entertainment. Live traffic updates, faster route recalculations, real-time weather data, and cloud-based maps work more smoothly with lower delays. Streaming music and video inside the car becomes more reliable, even on multiple screens.
The Mahindra XEV 9S, with three 12.3-inch displays and a 16-speaker Dolby Atmos system, uses 5G to support high-quality streaming and in-car apps. Passenger displays in vehicles like the Tata Sierra also benefit, allowing content consumption without affecting the driver’s interface.
Safety, OTA updates, and connected ecosystems
Apart from adding a network to the car, 5G also plays a role in safety and maintenance. Connected emergency calling, live vehicle health monitoring, and remote diagnostics rely on fast data transmission. Over-the-air software updates are another key benefit. The Tata Sierra supports OTA updates for multiple electronic control units, reducing the need for service centre visits. Kia’s connected platform allows software and feature updates to be remotely applied, keeping systems current over time.
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