Cubic3 and Viasat partner to deliver global satellite connectivity for enhanced driver experience
Press Release, 4 June 2025
Cubic3, a global leader in software-defined vehicle (SDV) solutions, has announced plans with Viasat, a global leader in satellite communications, to create a ubiquitous, seamless satellite connectivity service allowing drivers to make calls and access critical safety services from almost anywhere on Earth. Live trials of the new service will begin in 2025.
The solution would see Viasat’s highly reliable L-band satellite network integrated with Cubic3’s cloud platform to create a ‘one-stop shop’ solution for automotive manufacturers. It means that Viasat’s satellites would enable drivers to make calls, access real-time weather information, and send out emergency alerts or messages even from the most remote locations. It would also enable continuous vehicle tracking to notify recovery or emergency services automatically in case of a breakdown or collision.
The move follows 3GPP Release 17 standards, which enable vehicles and other devices to connect directly to satellites without the need for dedicated satellite terminals or hardware. The standards are currently being adopted by the automotive industry to enable vehicles to connect to both cellular networks and satellites seamlessly to stay connected.
Andy Kessler, Vice President, Viasat Enterprise, said:
3GPP Release 17 NTN services are set to shape a new world of experiences for the driver in the coming years: beginning with the ability to access emergency notifications, traffic management and remote vehicle access, with global satellite coverage. Open standards and collaboration across the ecosystem, like this project with Cubic3, are set to change the industry by bringing major benefits to drivers and operators, with a lot more features and services on the way.
Cubic3 currently connects millions of vehicles—12% of all connected vehicles sold worldwide—to more than 550 terrestrial networks (TNs) across 200 countries and territories. Its customers include major OEMs such as Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche, General Motors, CNH, and IVECO. This new collaboration marks a significant step toward realising the vision of a seamless ‘Ubiquitous Network,’ by integrating terrestrial and satellite-based non-terrestrial networks (NTN) to enable truly global vehicle connectivity.
Our partnership with Viasat moves the automotive industry closer to true, always-on connectivity
said Nick Power, Chief Technology Officer at Cubic3.
Today’s vehicles are packed with smart safety features – but without reliable internet, they fall short. This service will bridge that gap, making remote driving safer and paving the way for satellite-supported voice calls on the road – bringing us one step closer to global, seamless coverage.
About Cubic3
Cubic3 provides advanced connectivity solutions for software-defined vehicles (SDVs) across 200+ countries. We help automotive, agriculture and transportation OEMs navigate the complexities of connecting vehicles while ensuring compliance with global regulations. With access to over 550 mobile networks, our smart connectivity empowers OEMs to innovate, scale and unlock new opportunities, driving efficiency and growth.
