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Continental is delivering a comprehensive digital access system for the new premium Audi Q6 e-tron electric SUV. This advanced solution features the smartphone-based CoSmA intelligent access system, which utilizes highly secure ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, alongside a traditional car key. This integration provides vehicle owners with enhanced convenience and security.
Key Highlights
- The new Audi Q6 e-tron SUV comes equipped with a complete vehicle access system from Continental.
- The system includes both a smartphone-based digital key (CoSmA) and a conventional physical key.
- Using UWB and Bluetooth Low Energy, the vehicle can be unlocked and started without the owner needing to physically handle their smartphone.
- Precise location detection from the UWB technology effectively prevents relay attacks, a common method of car theft.
Secure and Convenient Vehicle Access
The core of the system is Continental’s CoSmA digital key, which provides a seamless user experience. By leveraging a combination of Bluetooth Low Energy and Ultra-Wideband (UWB) radio technology, the system can precisely determine the location of the authorized smartphone. This allows the vehicle to be unlocked and the engine started without the driver ever needing to take their phone out of their pocket or bag. The solution is designed for broad usability and works with many mobile phone models from major smartphone providers.
A primary focus of this technology is enhancing vehicle security. The UWB technology’s precise triangulation of the signal effectively thwarts “man-in-the-middle” relay attacks. In these attacks, thieves attempt to intercept and extend the key’s signal to gain unauthorized entry. CoSmA’s ability to accurately sense the key’s proximity renders this theft technique obsolete, a feature that contributed to it receiving the German Innovation Award.
A Partnership Driving Innovation
The collaboration on the Audi Q6 e-tron, a battery-electric SUV produced in Ingolstadt, marks a significant milestone. The order from a premium manufacturer like Audi confirms Continental’s position as a market leader developing in-demand technologies.
“With the Audi Q6 e-tron, we’re equipping an important new electric model from Audi with a particularly reliable and digital access solution,” stated Jean-François Tarabbia, head of Architecture and Network Solutions at Continental Automotive.
Continental has been a pioneer in developing standards for contactless digital vehicle access and currently supplies similar systems to a variety of vehicle manufacturers. The company’s work continues to shape the future of sustainable and connected mobility, offering safe, intelligent, and efficient solutions for transportation worldwide.
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