A connected car carries a cellular modem and a telematics control unit that report diagnostics, location and driving data and receive map updates, remote commands and software updates. Manufacturers use the link for OTA updates that fix bugs or add features without a dealer visit, for usage-based insurance programs, and for emergency call functions.
The vehicle is effectively a fleet of embedded computers on wheels, which raises the stakes for security: a compromised head unit must not reach the braking system. Data ownership is another open question, since the car generates detailed records of where and how it is driven. Telematics covers the commercial fleet side, while V2X adds direct communication with other vehicles and infrastructure.
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