The collaboration between Samsung Electronics and Hyundai Motor Company has ushered in a new era of smart factory innovation. Recently, the two industry giants completed a groundbreaking end-to-end Reduced Capability (RedCap) 5G trial over a private network. This successful test emphasizes the transformative potential of next-generation industrial connectivity and will be showcased at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025. Such advancements underline the importance of 5G technology in revolutionizing modern manufacturing processes, ultimately leading to the creation of highly efficient and intelligent factories.
Transforming the Ulsan Plant
In October of the previous year, Samsung deployed a private 5G network at Hyundai Motor’s Ulsan Plant, the world’s largest single automobile manufacturing facility. This private 5G network connects and manages numerous devices and systems across the plant, enhancing real-time data handling and overall efficiency. The ultimate goal is to convert the Ulsan Plant into a smart factory as part of a broad effort towards industrial innovation.
This advanced network supports the seamless operation of IoT devices, such as Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), which are essential for efficient production processes. By leveraging high-performance and reliable private 5G, the plant ensures optimized control and automation, boosting productivity and reducing downtime. AGVs play a critical role in delivering parts to designated production lines, and the reliable connectivity of a 5G network enhances their performance significantly. These technological strides represent a major leap forward in manufacturing, helping companies maintain a competitive edge in the global market.
Successful RedCap Technology Trial
In January, comprehensive end-to-end RedCap technology tests were conducted at Samsung’s private 5G network testbed. These tests aimed to verify the capabilities and integrated performance of RedCap technology across the entire network. Samsung used its extensive suite of private 5G solutions, including a virtualized 5G Core and radios supporting the 4.7 GHz band, to demonstrate reliable and efficient connectivity. The successful execution of these trials illustrates Samsung’s ability to transform theoretical innovations into practical, impactful solutions.
Moreover, Hyundai Motor’s Diagnostic Scan (D Scan) device, equipped with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon® X35 5G Modem-RF System, was integrated into this network. This advancement enabled real-time, high-speed wireless communication between vehicles and diagnostic tools, surpassing the performance of previous Wi-Fi systems. The seamless, real-time transmission of inspection data facilitated by the high-speed 5G network has the potential to significantly enhance the accuracy and efficiency of vehicle inspections, reducing the chances of errors and enabling faster response times.
Future Expansion to Electric Vehicle Facilities
The collaboration marks a significant milestone as Hyundai Motor plans to extend RedCap private 5G networks to its new electric vehicle manufacturing facilities, set to begin operations in the first half of 2026. This expansion is a crucial step toward smart manufacturing, where various small devices, including sensors, cameras, and automated logistics robots, play integral roles in factory operations. Hyundai Motor’s commitment to adopting cutting-edge technology showcases its ambition to lead the industry in smart manufacturing solutions.
The adoption of RedCap technology on a private 5G network will enable more cost-effective, efficient, and intelligent automation and monitoring. The initiative underscores Hyundai Motor’s commitment to leading the industry in smart manufacturing solutions. The deployment of these technologies means that Hyundai’s electric vehicle facilities will benefit from superior control and monitoring capabilities, ensuring that every step of the manufacturing process is optimized for maximum efficiency and minimal waste.
RedCap Technology: A Game Changer
RedCap technology is key to the widespread adoption of private 5G networks across various industries, including manufacturing, construction, and academia. This technology streamlines 5G connectivity for small-size IoT devices by reducing complexity and enhancing battery life while maintaining necessary data speeds. RedCap enables devices with smaller form factors and longer battery life, making private 5G networks more efficient and cost-effective. The development paves the way for a broader range of applications, enhancing monitoring and operational capabilities across different sectors.
The breakthrough of RedCap technology means that industries can now leverage the benefits of 5G connectivity without the need for large, power-hungry devices. This reduction in complexity and power consumption is particularly valuable in scenarios where space and energy efficiency are critical. By facilitating the use of more compact and efficient devices, RedCap technology not only supports current manufacturing needs but also opens the door to future innovations and applications across various industries.
Samsung’s Proven 5G Expertise
The partnership between Samsung Electronics and Hyundai Motor Company has marked a significant leap in smart factory innovation. Recently, these leading companies executed a pioneering end-to-end Reduced Capability (RedCap) 5G trial over a private network. This groundbreaking test highlights the immense transformative capabilities of next-generation industrial connectivity, which will be prominently displayed at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025. These advancements underscore the crucial role of 5G technology in modernizing manufacturing processes, paving the way for the emergence of highly efficient and smart factories. The collaboration not only signifies a technological milestone but also sets a new standard for the future of industrial operations. By leveraging 5G, Samsung and Hyundai aim to optimize production, enhance real-time data analysis, and ensure seamless communication within the manufacturing ecosystem. This initiative reflects a broader trend toward integrating advanced technology in various industries to achieve greater efficiency, productivity, and innovation.