V2X (Vehicle-to-Vehicle or Vehicle-to-Infrastructure)

V2X is a form of technology that allows vehicles to communicate with moving parts of the traffic system around them. V2X, or connected-vehicle-to-everything communication, has several components. One of them is V2V, or vehicle to vehicle, which allows vehicles to communicate one another. Another component is V2I, or vehicle to infrastructure, allows vehicles to communicate with external systems such as street lights, buildings, and even cyclists or pedestrians. The game-changing technology uses a short-range wireless signal to communicate with compatible systems, and this signal is resistant to interference and inclement weather.

V2X communications systems are mainly geared toward safety, and they can be programmed to be aware of all surroundings in order to help prevent collision. In a traditional vehicle, V2X systems can convey important information to the driver regarding inclement weather, nearby accidents and road conditions, and the dangerous activities of nearby vehicles. Similarly, in autonomous vehicles, V2X provides extra information beyond the reach of the vehicle's existing system. As V2X use expands, it will become more pronounced.

In addition to safety benefits, V2X technology offers a range of everyday convenience benefits. For example, V2X systems integrate automatic payments for tolls, parking and similar fees.

From an economic standpoint, the market potential for V2X technology is huge. While the industry was barely tapped in 2016, production is expected to rise exponentially in coming years.

V2X is a relatively nascent market, and many of the system's benefits will not be fully realized until the market expands. In order for a V2X vehicle to to communicate with another vehicle or roadside object, that object must also use V2X technology. Many traffic systems don't have V2X systems in place, which means that vehicles that do have the technology cannot communicate with them. However, as V2X systems become more pervasive, vehicles are expected to be able to communicate not only with traffic systems, but also with cyclists and even pedestrians who carry V2X devices.

V2X is expected to grow significantly over the next 20 years, as many top V2X suppliers, such as Delphi, Denso, Qualcomm and Continental, have huge V2X integration plans. Many new car models use some form of V2X technology, particularly the more expensive or luxury brands, but V2X use is expected to eventually be added to lower-priced vehicles, too.

V2X technology will be particularly prominent in autonomous vehicles, which scan the immediate environment for risks and act upon their data. V2X will give these systems a broader reach and more information to allow them to make more informed decisions. V2X systems also transcend harsh weather conditions that often affect these vehicles, offering an added benefit.