In connected car news are Honda, ECARX, tesa, ZEISS, Saint-Gobain Sekurit, Hyundai Mobis, MapsUp & Geotab.
In this Article
Honda CR‑V ADAS Sensors Targeted by Thieves, Sparking Growing Concern
Thieves are increasingly stealing the advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) radar sensors from 2026 Honda CR‑Vs, as well as other Honda models like the Accord and Pilot. Hidden behind the front badge, these sensors—critical for features like automatic emergency braking and radar cruise control—can be removed quickly and resold online for a few hundred dollars, while replacement costs from dealerships can run thousands. Law enforcement in areas such as Baltimore has reported a spike in thefts, highlighting the vulnerability of these easily accessible components. Experts say mitigating the problem is challenging without redesigning vehicles or adding security measures, though aftermarket anti-theft brackets and devices have emerged to help protect the sensors. Automakers, including Honda, have yet to implement widespread fixes.
ECARX Zenith Computing Platform
ECARX debuted a pre-production version of its Zenith computing platform at CES 2026, showcasing a unified, high-performance architecture that combines intelligent cockpit and ADAS functions on a single system-on-chip powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon® Elite automotive platform. Developed in collaboration with Qualcomm Technologies, Zenith supports mixed-criticality workloads and features a premium 3D user interface, 5K display, Google Automotive Services, a QNX 8.0–based safety-critical instrument cluster, and advanced Level 2++ ADAS capabilities. Designed with a modular, scalable architecture, the platform enables automakers to tailor performance and add support for Level 3+ autonomy and advanced telematics. ECARX plans to expand Zenith into a broader portfolio of single- and dual-chip solutions, with production targeted for 2027.
tesa, ZEISS, Saint-Gobain Sekurit, & Hyundai Mobis Form “QuadAlliance”
tesa, ZEISS, Saint-Gobain Sekurit, and Hyundai Mobis have launched a strategic “QuadAlliance” to deliver a production-ready, end-to-end solution for automotive holographic windshield displays (HWD). Combining expertise from holographic optical element (HOE) design and replication to windshield lamination, picture generation units (PGU), and HMI integration, the partners aim to simplify development for OEMs and accelerate time to market. The alliance targets series production by 2029, positioning windshields as transparent, interactive interfaces that enhance safety, design freedom, efficiency, and next-generation in-car experiences.
MapUp’s TollTally Joins Geotab Marketplace
MapUp announced that its TollTally® toll intelligence solution is now available through the Geotab Marketplace Order Now™ program, integrating directly with the MyGeotab® platform. The collaboration gives more than 5.8 million Geotab-connected vehicles access to GPS-based, near real-time toll calculations, eliminating the 30–60 day billing delays common in traditional toll management. Designed for fleets of all sizes and vehicle classes—from passenger cars to Class 8 trucks—TollTally uses AI-powered algorithms and high-fidelity telematics data to automate toll billing, driver reimbursements, and cost recovery. With toll expenses becoming a growing share of total fleet operating costs worldwide, the integration aims to improve cash flow, reduce administrative burden, and provide global toll coverage across more than 100 countries.
5GAA Technical Trials Advance U.S. Connected Mobility
The 5G Automotive Association (5GAA) successfully conducted live operational trials of next-generation vehicle connectivity in Sacramento, California, on February 5, 2026, demonstrating interoperable V2X tolling, non-terrestrial network (NTN) satellite links, and AI-enabled safety systems. Technical highlights included the first bi-directional voice call over Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) satellite networks, validated by BMW and HARMAN, alongside real-world C-V2X tolling transactions involving Audi and Volkswagen that utilized both direct 5.9GHz and 5G network-based protocols. These demonstrations, supported by the California State Transportation Agency and leading technology partners like Qualcomm and Verizon, confirm the readiness of integrated V2X infrastructure to enhance roadway safety and operational efficiency across disparate terrestrial and satellite environments.