LGI unveils world’s first 5G broadband satellite module for vehicles

(LG Innotek)

LG Innotek (LGI) has developed the world’s first vehicle communication module that supports 5G broadband satellite networks, the company announced on Wednesday.

The new “3rd-generation 5G communication module” can support around 30MHz of broadband (NR-NTN), unlike previous models that relied on narrowband satellite links (0.2MHz, NB-NTN). This allows for high-speed, large-capacity data transmission even in remote areas where terrestrial base stations are unavailable.

The module delivers speeds in the tens of Mbps and significantly reduces latency from several seconds to a few hundred milliseconds. It integrates advanced RF circuitry, high-efficiency antenna designs, and optimized software to ensure reliable performance in vehicle environments.

Built to the latest 3GPP Release 17 standard, the technology expands 5G’s scope beyond terrestrial networks to satellite-based non-terrestrial networks (NTN), making it applicable to vehicles in various global markets.

The new module enables stable transmission of voice, image, and video data in real time - enhancing driver safety and enabling advanced autonomous driving features, even in remote or disaster-hit areas. LGI plans to begin mass production in the first quarter of 2026 and is actively marketing the module to automakers in North America and Japan.

The company expects global shipments of 5G-equipped vehicles to grow from 4 million units in 2024 to 75 million in 2032, which represents a 43 percent compound annual growth rate.