DeviceGuru

The market for ITS (intelligent transport systems) related communications services in Europe will achieve 2.9 billion Euros ($3.5 billion at current exchange rates) aggregate annual revenue by 2020, forecasts InnovITS ADVANCE. This would represent about 4.5 percent of the total European market for telematics and data communications, according to the U.K.-based ITS R&D facility.

The bullish forecast is based on “the growing convergence between in-car and mobile technologies, whilst our market valuation supports the investment being made to connect vehicles, highways and telecommunications,” the company stated.

“These figures give added incentive to manufacturers such as Audi, BMW, and Ford, which are placing increased focus on the ‘Connected Car’ and associated services,” added the company.

According to the company, “Audi’s Mobile Media Interface (MMI) will soon be available on select Audi A8 vehicles; BMW has unveiled a concept Mobile Application Store, allowing drivers to download to mobiles on the move; and Ford has launched its own Mobile App Developer Network to support applications which integrate with its SYNC in-car computing system.”

“These projects demonstrate the growing convergence between in-car and mobile technologies, whilst our market valuation supports the investment being made to connect vehicles, highways, and telecommunications,” said company spokesperson Roger Wilson. “Accelerated growth in the sector means providers are seeking cost effective and fast routes to market.”

Wilson explained that innovITS’s private GSM network lets users “enhance or degrade GSM signals at any point on the track, and a private Wi-Fi network offers connectivity between test vehicles and infrastructure.”

Further details are available from the company’s website.