u-blox acquisition targets vehicle-to-vehicle communications

Swiss based 602 u-blox has acquired the automotive-grade Bluetooth and wi-fi module products of Lesswire, a subsidiary of the PRETTL group. Founded in 1999, Lesswire provides robust vehicle-ready short range wireless communication modules to Tier-1 automotive electronics suppliers in Europe and Asia.

The purchase includes off-the-shelf products, equipment and a team of experts in the area of connected car and short range connectivity modules.

“The addition of the automotive modules from Lesswire positions u-blox as a strategic supplier of wireless technology to the fast growing market for in-car and vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication systems,” said Herbert Blaser, VP of short range products at u-blox.

“Besides actual high demand for in-car connectivity, next generation smart cars will have advanced safety and collision avoidance systems that depend on robust, reliable communications. Building on u blox’s leadership in automotive positioning electronics, this acquisition adds a key enabling technology to our portfolio. We welcome our new colleagues in Berlin to build on the synergies between our companies."