As 5G technology makes its way into cars made around the world, manufacturers are concerned about how much they will be paying for the patents. The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) and five top automotive groups recently pushed for transparency in the licensing process in a letter to Avanci, the leading patent pool operator for licensing essential for 5G use in connected vehicles.
The letter requested information on which patents will be licensed, how the essentiality of the patents is assessed, and how the royalty rates are determined to be fair, reasonable and non-discriminatory.
The groups also called for the adoption of the European Union’s proposed standard essential patent (SEP) licensing rules. SEP licensing is essential for implementing a specific industry standard, according to ACEA.
“In the auto industry, SEPs are typically related to cellular connectivity standards for vehicles, enabling features such as in-car WiFi and connected services like navigation and entertainment,” ACEA said. “The auto sector – and others providing connected products and services within the Internet of Things – will continue to face problems in obtaining licenses for using wireless technology on fair and reasonable terms.”
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