French carmaker Renault has partnered with Orange, a telecommunications operator, on a research project to test the automotive uses of very-high-speed, 4G/LTE (long term evolution) connectivity.
The new technology will enable divers to access their professional and personal digital worlds, wherever driving circumstances permit.
As a part of this deal, Orange introduced its 4G in advance at Renault's research and testing facilities.
Both companies will explore the uses of using very-high-speed mobile technology in real-life situations, ranging from virtual office and cloud gaming to video conferencing. An initial test is underway on the NEXT TWO prototype based on Renault ZOE.
Renault engineering innovation head Rémi Bastien said: "We were able to benefit ahead of time from a high-speed LTE network and from Orange's expertise, with an opportunity to take advantage of the network for our prototype of the connected vehicle of the future."
Orange smart cities program head Nathalie Leboucher said: "Connected cars with communications services make travelling more efficient, and this is a major development priority in Orange's strategy."
Renault currently offers its customers an integrated and connected multimedia touch tablet - Renault R-Link, which is available on most Renault range models.
The carmaker relies on the connectivity of Orange Business Services, which supplies the SIM M2M cards used in R-Link-equipped cars.
