In connected car news are Nexteer, OMNIVISION, OMNIVISION, AirgainConnect, Quectel, Rivian and Agillence>
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Nexteer Advanced Direct Drive Hand Wheel Actuator
Nexteer Automotive has introduced its Direct Drive Hand Wheel Actuator (DD-HWA), a breakthrough advancement in Steer-by-Wire technology that eliminates traditional mechanical steering connections in favor of electronic control. The system works with both 12V and 48V architectures across traditional, hybrid, and electric vehicles.
Key innovations include:
- Premium steering performance with fast dynamic response and precise feedback that maintains driver confidence across all conditions
- Flexible mounting options offering Low-Mount (under-dash) or High-Mount (near steering wheel) configurations, enabling creative cabin layouts and stowable steering concepts
- Compact, lightweight design that optimizes space and energy efficiency, particularly beneficial for electric vehicles
- Enhanced safety features including rigid-connection structure, built-in redundancy, and high-precision multi-channel angle sensing for exceptional accuracy
- In-house motor production for better quality control and supply chain management
- Simplified architecture with fewer components for improved reliability and easier vehicle integration
The DD-HWA represents a cornerstone of Nexteer’s Motion-by-Wire portfolio, supporting software-defined vehicles and all levels of assisted and automated driving. According to CTO Robin Milavec, the technology enables automakers to differentiate their offerings while future-proofing their platforms through scalable, flexible solutions.
OMNIVISION Next-Generation OX08D20 Image Sensor
At AutoSens Europe 2025 in Barcelona, OMNIVISION introduced the OX08D20, an 8-megapixel CMOS image sensor with TheiaCel technology, designed to elevate performance in advanced driver assistance and autonomous driving systems. Building on the success of the OX08D10, the new sensor offers improved low-light sensitivity, reduced motion blur through a capture scheme co-developed with Mobileye, and an upgraded 60 fps frame rate to support dual-use cameras. It also features enhanced cybersecurity compliant with MIPI CSE 2.0 and a compact a-CSP package 50% smaller than comparable exterior sensors. Sampling begins in November 2025, with mass production slated for late 2026.
OMNIVISION OX05C:5MP BSI Global Shutter HDR Sensor
OMNIVISION introduced the OX05C, the automotive industry’s first 5-megapixel back-side illuminated global shutter high dynamic range image sensor designed for in-cabin driver and occupant monitoring systems. Debuting at AutoSens Europe 2025, the OX05C uses Nyxel near-infrared technology for superior low-light performance at the 940nm wavelength, delivering clear, detailed cabin imaging even in extreme lighting. With a compact 6.61mm x 5.34mm footprint—30% smaller than its predecessor—the sensor provides automakers more placement flexibility while maintaining lens compatibility.
The OX05C’s integrated RGB-IR separation eliminates the need for external processing, reducing cost and bandwidth demands, while its global shutter design avoids IR interference common in rolling-shutter sensors. Supporting simultaneous driver and occupant monitoring with enhanced cybersecurity, the OX05C offers a complete, efficient solution for next-generation ADAS safety systems. Samples are available now, with mass production planned for 2026.
AirgainConnect Fleet Earns 5G T-Mobile T-Priority Certification
Airgain announced that its flagship 5G vehicle gateway, AirgainConnect Fleet (AC-Fleet), has received T-Mobile’s T-Priority certification, ensuring prioritized, reliable connectivity for first responders on T-Mobile’s nationwide 5G network. The certification enables uninterrupted communication for police, fire, and EMS fleets during emergencies, leveraging T-Mobile’s network slicing technology for priority data access when networks are congested.
The AC-Fleet integrates a 5G modem, Wi-Fi 6 router, GPS/GNSS, and high-performance antennas into a compact, roof-mounted unit that reduces signal loss, simplifies installation, and enhances reliability. With rugged IP67/IP69K and MIL-STD-810G ratings, multi-network eSIM flexibility, and remote management via AC-Cloud, AC-Fleet delivers robust performance for mission-critical applications such as CAD/AVL, video streaming, and telemedicine.
This milestone strengthens Airgain’s role in advancing 5G public safety and government fleet connectivity, supporting the nationwide transition from 4G to 5G while reaffirming the company’s commitment to dependable, high-performance communication solutions for first responders.
Quectel LR700A Smart Connected GNSS Receiver
Quectel Wireless Solutions unveiled the LR700A, a smart connected GNSS receiver that combines GNSS, cellular, Wi-Fi, and antenna systems in a single modular design. Capable of operating as a standalone base station or as part of an RTK (real-time kinematic) network, the LR700A connects to the cloud to deliver GNSS correction data globally. Supporting six major satellite constellations (GPS, Galileo, BDS, GLONASS, QZSS, and NavIC) across multiple frequency bands, the device enables 1040-channel simultaneous tracking, ensuring exceptional accuracy and reliability for industrial and field applications.
With ultra-low power consumption, an IP67-rated industrial-grade build, and robust environmental resistance, the LR700A is ideal for use in precision agriculture, surveying, autonomous vehicles, and outdoor robotics. Its cellular connectivity allows easy deployment in remote areas without existing infrastructure, while Wi-Fi and Zigbee integration enable local configuration and rover communication. According to Quectel’s Windy Fang, the LR700A’s compact, efficient design offers developers a “complete, all-in-one receiver for power-constrained, high-accuracy positioning systems.”
Rivian Selects Agillence
Agillence, Inc., a logistics optimization company, announced that Rivian Automotive has chosen its proprietary Agillence Lean Logistics Optimizer (ALLO) software to streamline and enhance the automaker’s parts logistics network. The ALLO platform provides a data-driven approach to designing supply chains by optimizing network design, order frequency, routing, and packaging at the part level. This integrated system is designed to reduce logistics costs while increasing efficiency across multi-tier inbound networks.
Rivian’s decision to partner with Agillence reflects the growing complexity of electric vehicle (EV) supply chains, which demand high flexibility and precision to support sustainable production goals. According to Srini Paruchuri, Agillence’s Vice President of Customer Strategy and Solutions, the company’s tools will help Rivian build a more agile and operationally efficient network aligned with its commitment to carbon-neutral transportation.
Agillence provides logistics optimization technology and consulting to leading automakers, suppliers, and logistics providers around the world. Offered on a secure, SOC 2–certified SaaS platform, its solutions are designed to improve material flow, service parts distribution, and vehicle delivery operations. Through its advanced optimization platforms—ALLO and ALMS—Agillence delivers measurable cost savings and efficiency gains by combining centralized data, automation, and best-in-class industry practices.