Where does the built-in 4G network in cars come from?

[StSkylar]

Car's built-in 4G network comes from the SIM card bound to the vehicle. The working principle of car's built-in 4G network is the same as that of mobile phone SIM cards. Although both car 4G networks and mobile networks operate through bound SIM cards, the SIM cards used in cars are specially designed and built into multifunctional vehicles. New drivers who just obtained their licenses should pay attention to the following points: 1. Develop the habit of checking rearview mirrors: Many beginners lack experience in fast driving and their driving skills are not yet proficient, so they must control their speed on the road - the premise of driving is ensuring personal safety. 2. Learn to use brakes properly: While driving, the right foot should rest on the brake pedal, which constitutes the crucial 'ready-to-brake' position. Developing this habit can significantly improve driving safety.

[LaElias]

Last time I went to the 4S shop for maintenance, I specifically asked the technician about this. They said many new cars now come with built-in connectivity modules, which is like having a mobile SIM card hidden behind the dashboard. However, this card is an eSIM soldered onto the circuit board, directly connecting to signal towers like China Mobile or China Unicom. Manufacturers usually provide several years of free data, after which you have to renew it yourself. Once, I used my car's hotspot to connect my tablet during a road trip, and it was much more stable than using my phone's hotspot. The car's system can also automatically update maps, and you can listen to online music to pass the time in traffic jams. But be aware that the signal may weaken in underground garages, though it's generally fine in urban areas.

[VonArianna]

A friend who works on in-vehicle system R&D told me that the vehicle's 4G functionality is mainly achieved through that small black box near the windshield, which integrates communication chips and antennas. Automakers usually purchase IoT card packages from carriers in bulk and then spread the internet costs across the vehicle price. It works pretty much like a mobile phone, though it might occasionally drop the connection when driving at high speeds. This feature is particularly useful for remotely starting the air conditioning, allowing you to preset the car temperature so you won't freeze your hands and feet when getting in during winter.

[StMarcus]

When I was buying a car, the salesperson told me that the vehicle's internet now operates on an independent channel, separate from the mobile 4G network. I often use this feature to connect my child's tablet in the back seat for playing cartoons, which makes long trips much easier. Essentially, the car's system has a built-in SIM card slot, though it's not visible to us. It's important to ask about the details of the data plan when buying a car, as some brands can be quite expensive after the free period ends. The signal is more stable on highways than expected, but it may drop in mountainous areas.

[DelElena]

I remember the manual mentioned that the onboard 4G antenna is usually hidden in the shark fin antenna or trunk lid. The vehicle automatically connects to the internet upon ignition, somewhat like having a built-in mobile WiFi hotspot. However, I've noticed significant differences in network speeds across brands, with some being quite sluggish. The most practical feature is the remote vehicle location tracking—it once saved me when searching for my car in a mall parking lot. Nowadays, this function is standard in electric vehicles, while only higher-end gasoline cars come equipped with it.