DSRC and CV2X: Key Differences and Primary Resources of Information

We have all heard about V2X, the vehicle to everything communication because it’s not just the future but the present of vehicle technology. Two of the names that emerge when you dig in a bit more are cellular’s CV2X and DSRC. These two technologies are competing to get recognition on a global level and have something unique to offer.

Understanding DSRC
DSRC is a project that aims to create a nationwide network which ensures smooth communication between vehicles and vehicle infrastructure. It uses IEEE 802.11p amendment to add WAVE, wireless access in vehicular environments. It allows low latency communications regarding basic safety messages between vehicles and transport infrastructure.
DSRC messages are encrypted based on certificates and digital signatures. These certificates are used by a vehicle for a limited period of time and don’t have any information about the driver. DSRC also makes V2X communication possible which allows a vehicle and the driver to see beyond the sight level and ensures that a driver’s vision is not hampered by bad weather conditions.

Understanding C-V2X
CV2X extends existing cellular capabilities and enhances situational awareness by detecting & exchanging information by making use of low latency transmission. A major benefit of this technological innovation is that it can work seamlessly without network assistance and has more than 1 mile of range, even in the areas where mobile networks are unavailable.
It can make a vehicle safer and more suitable for autonomous driving by combining capabilities of RSUs, radio base stations installed along the side of a road and at intersections. They usually allow communications between vehicles and transport infrastructures. In the future, these roadside units could make use of a high-throughput connection with other vehicles present on the road to build dynamic, local HD maps by making use of camera and sensor data. It will also take on the task of distributing them as needed.
CV2X has the ability to make use of features offered by existing cellular LTE network and has the ability to connect the car to all types of objects that have cellular connectivity or sensors. It includes people who own smartphones (which is almost everyone these days). 5G based CV2X will support autonomous vehicles by letting vehicles detect obstructions that a driver can’t see.

DSRC vs. CV2X

Closer to Reality
DSRC might soon be mandated in all new vehicles and some major auto manufacturers like GM, Volkswagen and Toyota plan to ensure mass deployment from the next year, 2019. In contrast, CV2X is not becoming a reality anytime soon as it needs better safety systems and lacks maturity.
Safety Risk
If CV2X is made a reality, it might hinder vehicle of one manufacturer to communicate seamlessly with vehicle of another manufacturer. It is a huge safety risk. No such risk exists with DSRC.
Costs Matter
CV2X is less cost-effective as compared to DSRC as the former needs a multi-user receiver that must have a 0.1ppm clock source. Also, CV2X and cellular modem must work concurrently but can’t share resources to bring the costs down as it will create a cybersecurity risk.
Basic Requirements
CV2X is not able to meet application requirements penned down by industry experts and regulatory environment requirements defined in the US or Europe while DSRC can meet all such requirements.