Cubic, a global provider of software-defined vehicle (SDV) solutions, has partnered with Thales to integrate advanced eSIM technology, aiming to enhance connectivity management across multiple industries, including automotive, transportation, and agriculture.
The collaboration brings Thales’s expertise in eSIM management to Cubic’s connectivity solutions, ensuring compliance with the latest GSMA standards. This move is expected to streamline connectivity for millions of vehicles and IoT devices, reducing the complexity of managing networks across different regions.
Simplifying Global Connectivity
The increasing demand for seamless, automated connectivity has driven the adoption of eSIM technology. The GSMA SGP.32 standard for IoT, which Thales’s platform complies with, is designed to enhance security, interoperability, and scalability for large-scale eSIM deployments.
By incorporating this technology, Cubic aims to offer a more flexible and efficient solution for global network connectivity. The integration of Thales’s eSIM management system enables remote subscription activation and updates, eliminating the need for physical SIM swaps or manual intervention. This means that vehicles and IoT devices equipped with Cubic’s technology can automatically connect to local networks when crossing borders.
Nick Power, Chief Technology Officer at Cubic, highlighted the importance of this transition, stating: “For OEMs, adopting GSMA M2M eSIM has been anything but simple. Technical complexity, vendor lock-in, and managing multi-MNO connectivity at a global scale have all slowed adoption. Transitioning to a leaner, more efficient GSMA eSIM IoT architecture will be essential.”
Impact on Automotive and IoT Industries
Cubic’s customers, including Volkswagen AG, General Motors, SEAT, and IVECO, are expected to benefit from the improved connectivity solutions. Vehicles manufactured with Cubic’s technology can now be pre-configured at the factory level and activated dynamically once deployed in the field. This reduces operational challenges and ensures a seamless experience for both manufacturers and consumers.
Eva Rudin, Vice President of Mobile Connectivity Solutions at Thales, stated: “With this upgrade, Cubic aims to remain at the forefront of IoT connectivity by addressing evolving market demands. The integration of Thales’s ‘On-Demand Subscription Manager’ platform will enable Cubic to maximise end-to-end connectivity management for OEMs, ensuring devices are seamlessly connected from factory to field.”
The collaboration between Cubic and Thales represents a significant step towards simplifying global eSIM management. By adopting standardised, interoperable solutions, the two companies aim to support the growing demand for reliable, automated connectivity across industries.