Revolutionizing Automotive Connectivity: LG Innotek's Groundbreaking 5G Satellite Module

LG Innotek Introduces the World's First 5G Automotive Satellite Communication Module

On June 9, 2025, LG Innotek announced an innovative leap in automotive technology by introducing the world's first Automotive 5G Communication Module with satellite connectivity. This pioneering device is set to enhance high-speed communication capabilities in vehicles, ensuring that data can be transmitted and received seamlessly anywhere, at any time.

The 5G Communication Module, classified as a third-generation technology, facilitates rapid data exchange between vehicles and network infrastructure, which includes both base stations and satellites. This advancement is crucial for the development of Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs) and the broader implementation of autonomous driving systems.

Previously, automotive 5G communication modules using satellite connections operated on narrowband channels, severely limiting their bandwidth to around 0.2 MHz and restricting data transmission speeds to several hundred kilobits per second. Under these conditions, only low-volume data applications like text messaging could be supported. As a result, automakers faced significant constraints in meeting the demands for high-traffic data transmission essential for advanced autonomous driving.

The ushering in of LG Innotek's new 5G Communication Module allows for the transfer of substantial data volumes at high speeds, a feat made possible through the implementation of NR-NTN (New Radio-Non-Terrestrial Network) technology, which operates at a frequency bandwidth of around 30 MHz. This means that even in areas beyond the reach of traditional base stations, vehicles equipped with this module can maintain consistent communication via satellite, significantly amplifying their operational capabilities.

Advanced Technological Features

With the new generation of 5G technology, data transmission speeds can reach tens of megabits per second, a substantial upgrade compared to previous modules. In addition, latency has been drastically reduced from several seconds to just a few hundred milliseconds, markedly improving real-time communication abilities. This rapid exchange of information enables vehicles to transmit voice, images, and video data efficiently, effectively enhancing communication services capabilities for vehicles.

Consider the scenario of a vehicle breaking down in remote areas such as deserts, mountains, or regions impacted by natural disasters. The 5G module can continuously maintain satellite communication, allowing quick transmission of emergency requests and vehicle status updates, thereby securing necessary assistance in critical situations and ultimately enhancing driver safety.

The module also plays a fundamental role in improving the performance of autonomous driving systems. With robust satellite connectivity, vehicles can access precise location data regardless of their geographical context, allowing real-time updates to driving algorithms. This results in enhanced driving precision and safety.

Another essential aspect of the 'Third-generation 5G Communication Module' is its compliance with international standards, allowing for broad adoption across various countries and vehicle types. The module is built on the latest global 5G standards, namely Release 17, which represents a significant advance by expanding 5G capabilities from terrestrial to non-terrestrial networks, including satellites.

Future Outlook

LG Innotek envisions this innovative module as a cornerstone of its automotive components business. The company aims to grow the automotive communication module segment to a business exceeding 800 million U.S. dollars. Mass production of the 'Third-generation Communication Module' is slated to begin in the first quarter of 2026, with hopes of penetrating markets in North America and Japan.

Byaeng Kuk Yoo, Senior Vice President and Head of LG Innotek's Automotive Components Business Unit, expressed confidence in the future of this technology. He stated, "The vehicular communication module is crucial for advancing LG Innotek's automotive presence, alongside automotive lighting. Our commitment remains steadfast in developing innovative components that provide substantial value to our clients."

As per industry estimates, the number of vehicles equipped with 5G communication modules is expected to surge from merely 4 million in 2024 to a whopping 75 million by 2032, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 43%.

In summary, LG Innotek's commitment to technological innovation with its 5G Communication Module not only propels automotive communication capabilities to new heights but also ensures safer and more efficient driving experiences for consumers globally.