Is the Internet of Vehicles free?
3 Answers
Internet of Vehicles is not free. Introduction to Internet of Vehicles is as follows: Definition of Internet of Vehicles system: The Internet of Vehicles system refers to the installation of vehicle terminal equipment on the vehicle dashboard to collect, store and send all working conditions and static and dynamic information of the vehicle. The Internet of Vehicles system generally has real-time and real-scene functions, using mobile networks to achieve human-vehicle interaction. Composition of Internet of Vehicles system: The Internet of Vehicles system is divided into three parts: vehicle terminal, cloud computing processing platform, and data analysis platform. The vehicle terminal collects real-time operating data of the vehicle, realizing the collection, storage and sending of all working information and static and dynamic information of the vehicle.
I just picked up a new car with connected car features and found that it's not entirely free. Basic functions like software updates and vehicle diagnostics are free, but in actual use, practical features such as navigation and remote start mostly require monthly or annual subscription fees. Many automakers offer free trial periods, like the first year being completely free, after which fees apply, ranging from tens to hundreds per month depending on the car model and package. I consulted the 4S store, and they advised clarifying the scope of free services when purchasing the car to avoid unexpected bills. Connected car features can enhance the driving experience, but the cost must be factored in—don't just rely on ads claiming it's free. Some free services also have limitations, like data usage caps that halt service once exceeded, requiring a mobile hotspot for continued access. Overall, the free portion is sufficient for daily use, but heavy reliance means paying up.
From a technical perspective, vehicle connectivity services are often tiered with free and paid options: the basic layer is free, including features like vehicle location tracking and basic remote control, while value-added services such as real-time traffic updates, voice assistants, or entertainment subscriptions usually require monthly fees. Automakers monetize these services similarly to mobile data plans, with costs ranging from tens to hundreds of yuan. Having tried various brands, I found free services sufficient for emergencies, but premium features do offer convenience worth paying for. Data privacy is another consideration—free versions may share more driving data by default in exchange for services. When purchasing connected car services, scrutinize contract details to avoid hidden costs. I recommend testing services before committing to subscriptions.
