Documents filed with the Federal Communications Commission have hinted that Tesla may be looking for ultra-wideband (UWB) technology for its vehicles because it is one of the first auto manufacturers to do so. UWB, a technology developed by technology giants like Apple and Samsung, would allow car owners to unlock their vehicles without taking their mobile device out of their pocket.
Tesla submitted six new products for consideration by the FCC on September 9. These products include two key fobs, a security controller and a number of “end points” that would be installed in a vehicle’s frame and cab. In any case, these products were specifically mentioned to support UWB communication.
There are several notable aspects in Tesla’s FCC filings. Tesla added a full operational description of the technology, showing that it plans to adopt a standards-based implementation of ultra-wideband technology. This suggests to some extent that UWB technology from devices such as Apple and Samsung smartphones should be compatible, at least theoretically. The technology is also designed to let users know how far they are from their vehicle.
As noted in a report by The edge, this “range” could be key to preventing repeat attacks, which could lead a Tesla to think its key fob is closer than it really is. This is a point of attack that has been exploited in the past by security researchers, some of whom have gained access to a Tesla by forging the vehicle’s key fob system. Tesla’s security features such as PIN to Drive were in response to these attacks. UWB can also support other applications such as locating a vehicle in a busy parking lot.
Granted, Tesla’s FCC filings are no guarantee that ultra-wideband technology will indeed come to its vehicles. However, it should be noted that FCC documents are usually a good sign that a company is quite serious about rolling out new technology, with document submission sometimes becoming one of the last waypoints of a product before it hits the market.
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