PARIS, Nov. 4 /CNW/ --

Leading provider of LTE networks expands the range of mobile broadband
applications with innovative automotive connectivity showcase on wheels

Alcatel-Lucent (Euronext Paris and NYSE: ALU) today highlighted its leading role in the development of the LTE Connected Car concept, an in-vehicle broadband connectivity showcase introduced by the ng Connect Program. The LTE Connected Car illustrates how 4G/Long Term Evolution (LTE) mobile broadband access technology is poised to bring a host of new applications and services to the automobile that are not possible today with current wireless technologies. As part of its collaboration with other ng Connect member companies, Alcatel-Lucent leveraged its unmatched expertise in the development of sophisticated mobile broadband, triple play and multimedia networks to create a powerful new category of mobile device.

Through the ng Connect Program, Alcatel-Lucent is leading the way in fostering innovation and the creation of new applications integrated with the end-to-end network. Alcatel-Lucent pre-integrates and tests this open ecosystem of applications and devices with our end-to-end LTE all-IP network. In essence, Alcatel-Lucent provides the "connected" in the LTE Connected Car concept vehicle.

Alcatel-Lucent, one of the early leaders in the emerging market for LTE mobile broadband networks, played a central role in the integration of this concept vehicle, a virtual "smartphone on wheels." For instance, Alcatel-Lucent combined an LTE broadband radio link - which brings cloud-based multimedia services into the car - with an in-vehicle WiFi environment to support easy integration with traditional home-based services. Alcatel-Lucent also helped manage the integration of the car's wireless networks with the on-board operating system provided by QNX Software Systems, a leading provider of embedded systems. Additionally, the company managed the end-to-end integration of the multimedia services - including mobile, multiplayer video gaming, video on demand and more - that are available in the vehicle. Combined, these capabilities enable this networked concept vehicle to offer a wide range of navigation, personal security, vehicle wellness, and "infotainment" services to drivers and passengers alike.

"The LTE Connected Car concept vehicle highlights just one of the exciting new ways that mobile service providers can potentially expand the range of connected experiences available to their subscribers," said Derek Kuhn, Vice President for Emerging Technology and Media with Alcatel-Lucent.