Ettifos Unveils Breakthrough V2X Tolling System with Audi and Kapsch

Ettifos, recognized as a pioneer in C-V2X solutions, has made significant strides in the transportation tech sector with the successful demonstration of their V2X tolling system. Conducted on March 26 in sunny North Carolina, this milestone was part of a collaborative effort with automotive giant Audi and traffic technology innovator Kapsch TrafficCom. The demonstration showcased the efficiency and reliability of tolling systems that use cutting-edge V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything) communication technology.

A Seamless Connection

The real-world demonstrations validated the low-latency, standards-based communication between Ettifos' V2X-AIR onboard unit (OBU) and Kapsch's roadside units (RSUs), delivering robust interoperability across a multi-vendor ecosystem. This pivotal event took place during the OmniAir Consortium V2X Tolling Workshop and centered around innovative uses of Vehicle-to-Infrastructure (V2I) communications using up-to-date standardized V2X protocols.

The First Demonstration: Integrated V2X Tolling in Audi Vehicles

The first demonstration highlighted a near-market implementation of V2X tolling utilizing the Ettifos OBU, which was integrated into an Audi vehicle. As the vehicle passed through the designated tolling zone, the Ettifos OBU established continuous communication with Kapsch's RSUs. This allowed for real-time processing of standardized V2X tolling messages, which were then relayed back to the driver's display within the Audi, confirming a successful transaction seamlessly and efficiently.

Not only did this scenario validate Ettifos' V2X-AIR OBU as compliant with tolling standards, but it also exemplified how easily V2X technology can be incorporated into existing vehicle services, enhancing the overall driving experience with secure, in-vehicle payment systems.

The Second Demonstration: Aftermarket V2X OBU Implementation

The second demo took a different approach by showcasing Ettifos' standard-compliant aftermarket V2X OBU—V2X-AIR. This easy-to-install device supports safety, efficiency, and tolling services across pre-existing vehicle fleets. Its dashboard-mounted installation allowed it to communicate with Kapsch’s RSUs, dynamically processing tolling data and providing immediate feedback on toll transactions and road warnings to drivers.

These implementations demonstrated the potential for widespread adoption of V2X tolling provisions, highlighting how existing vehicles can be retrofitted with affordable technology to enhance the driving experience and streamline toll collection processes.

Significant Results and Future Implications

The impressive outcomes of these demonstrations included verified V2X communication capabilities for both safety and tolling services, showcasing the seamless integration of both OEM and aftermarket systems. The collaboration confirmed the interoperability among Audi, Ettifos, and Kapsch products in a live operational environment—a significant advancement in the V2X tolling sector.

At the forefront of these technologies is the V2X-AIR, designed specifically for high-performance V2X communication that supports various applications, including tolling. Compliance with the BABA (Build America, Buy America) standards makes it an ideal solution for deployment in federally funded infrastructure projects across the United States.

Ettifos CEO Hojun Kim expressed pride in the collaborative success, noting the contributions towards a pivotal shift in V2X tolling capabilities. He emphasized the importance of interoperability in catalyzing a scalable approach to V2X solutions, benefitting both OEMs and aftermarket installers preparing for immediate market deployment.

According to Jason Conley, Executive Director of the OmniAir Consortium, the success of these demonstrations symbolizes the essential synergy among industry players for large-scale V2X tolling deployments. By gathering leaders from both tolling and technological sectors, the OmniAir Workshop is shaping the future of electronic toll collection and in-vehicle payment systems.

Conclusion

The advancements noted in Ettifos' demonstrations signify the promising landscape for V2X tolling technologies. With the potential to redefine how electronic tolls are collected, the next generation of vehicles will become more integrated into a dynamic mobility ecosystem, ensuring efficiency and enhanced user experiences for drivers in this evolving landscape.