Automotive Industry Update: JOYNEXT, Google's Android Auto, Asahi Kasei, VIA Optronics, Autolink, HAAS Alert, and Mitsubishi Collaborate on Connected Car Technologies
**Connected Car Technology in 2025: A Safer, Smarter, and More Interactive Journey**
In the year 2025, the automotive industry is set to revolutionize connected car technology, focusing on advancements in child presence detection, Android Auto updates, semiconductor packaging, smart cockpit systems, and V2X integration.
One of the key areas of focus is child presence detection, with systems like the one developed by JOYNEXT now being installed in vehicles from a major Japanese joint venture brand. The JOYNEXT system uses Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology to monitor vital signs such as breathing and heartbeat, ensuring the safety of children in vehicles.
Connected car infotainment is also evolving, with AI-powered user interfaces, voice assistants, and augmented reality displays becoming increasingly common. Google's Android Auto updates, unveiled at Google I/O 2025, are a prime example of this trend. The updates restrict video playback to when the vehicle is stationary for safety reasons, introduce an audio-only mode when the car is in motion, and integrate Spotify Jam for collaborative music curation during drives, allowing users to join sessions by scanning a QR code displayed on the car's infotainment screen.
The semiconductor technology for automotive applications is also advancing significantly. Asahi Kasei has unveiled the TA Series of SunfortTM dry film photoresist, a next-generation material for advanced semiconductor packaging. This material supports higher efficiency and durability in electric vehicle powertrains and advanced driver assistance systems, addressing the need for more robust and miniaturized packaging that can handle increased power demands and thermal management challenges in connected and electric vehicles.
Smart cockpits are another area of focus, with AI-driven interfaces and multi-sensor fusion enabling natural voice interactions, enhanced augmented reality (AR) displays, and integrated telematics functions. The strategic launch of the TA Series supports Asahi Kasei's "Trailblaze Together" growth plan, aiming to capitalize on rising demand in AI, automotive, and IoT sectors.
Vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication is also rapidly maturing, with embedded 5G modules and dedicated V2X chips inside vehicles enabling real-time communication with infrastructure, other vehicles, and smart city systems. This connectivity improves traffic management, enhances safety through cooperative driving technologies, and supports autonomous driving features. However, regulatory harmonization and cybersecurity remain critical challenges to ensure data privacy and system integrity as V2X becomes widespread.
HAAS Alert and Mitsubishi Electric Automotive America (MEAA) have announced a strategic partnership to enhance in-vehicle safety through the integration of HAAS Alert's Safety Cloud with MEAA's new in-cabin monitoring system, FLEXConnectTM. The integration enables vehicles equipped with FLEXConnectTM to both receive and broadcast digital alerts, enhancing driver awareness and enabling faster response to roadside emergencies.
The convergence of these advancements is propelling connected car technology to new heights, aiming to boost safety, user experience, and autonomous capabilities while addressing regulatory and cybersecurity challenges. The industry is undoubtedly on the brink of a new era, offering a safer, smarter, and more interactive journey for everyone.
In 2025, the financial investment in connected car technology is expected to increase substantially as companies like Google, Asahi Kasei, and HAAS Alert partner to integrate advanced features such as Android Auto updates, TA Series semiconductor packaging, and FLEXConnect technology into their offered products. With these advancements, individuals' lifestyles are poised to be influenced by enhanced safety, smarter in-vehicle interactions, and increased autonomy. Moreover, technology companies are continuously working towards addressing challenges in cybersecurity and regulatory harmonization to ensure a seamless and secure connected lifestyle.
