Photo by Cubic3

SoftBank’s telecommunications and IT operator business has formed a strategic partnership with software-defined vehicle (SDV) solutions provider Cubic3 to accelerate the commercial deployment of a “ubiquitous” satellite network for connected vehicles within the next few years.

The partnership is a continuation of SoftBank’s investment in satellite-connected vehicles. SoftBank will gain access to Cubic3’s cloud-based platform and the two partners will merge their efforts in working with satellite industry service providers and operators. SoftBank recently completed a connected vehicles test with Intelsat, and signed a multi-year LEO services contract with Eutelsat OneWeb this past September. Cubic3 collaborated with Skylo on an automotive SIM solution supporting both cellular and satellite connectivity and with Viasat for live trials that will see Viasat’s L-band satellite network integrate with Cubic3 Cloud later this year.

SoftBank, Cubic3, Intelsat, Skylo and Viasat also published an eBook entitled “Ubiquitous Connectivity: For a Smarter Automotive Future,” which is available for download on Cubic3’s website.

SoftBank and Cubic3 said that their new partnership includes collaboration with these satellite communications providers to advance seamless connectivity for automotive, agricultural and transportation original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).

“Connectivity is the lifeblood of the millions of vehicles that will be connected over the next decade. While terrestrial networks continue to enable cutting-edge in-vehicle experiences and features, swathes of the globe still don’t have coverage. Our solution will bring the terrestrial and non-terrestrial worlds together to deliver a truly ‘Ubiquitous Network’ across all corners of the globe,” Cubic3 CTO Nick Power said in the announcement.

“SoftBank is committed to realizing a ‘Ubiquitous Network’ where everyone and everything is seamlessly connected anytime, anywhere, and Cubic3 is a highly important strategic partner in achieving that goal. Together, we are working to deliver seamless communication services that ensure continuous connectivity by integrating multiple networks into a single solution through Cubic3’s cloud-based platform,” added SoftBank Vice President and Head of Product Technology Takenori Kobayashi.