Subaru’s Bifuka Proving Ground in Hokkaido, Japan, now utilizes a local sub-6 5G standalone (SA) network, which is an infrastructure that uses the spectrum below 6GHz and covers the entire circuit in the Subaru R&E Center.
According to the company, the local 5G network across Subaru’s test course is the first to be used by a Japanese car maker. The network is trialling the use of cooperative driving automation.
The test track will utilize the fast and reliable connectivity provided by the local 5G SA network to accelerate automation and development. The center has commenced testing coordination control, including merging and other maneuvers by multiple automated vehicles and remote vehicle control.
Seven sub-6 wireless base stations have been set up around the proving ground which enables remote control for cooperative driving automation throughout the area. Detailed specification of the equipment includes a Nokia Digital Automation Cloud (NDAC) system, provided by Nokia Solutions and Networks Japan GK. The installation was carried out with assistance from NS Solutions Corp.
