Hybrid V2X Communications: Multi-RAT as Enabler for Connected Autonomous Driving

Exploiting the full potential of automated driving systems requires reliable wireless communication enabling network connectivity and cooperation among vehicles. Multiple V2X technologies are addressing the requirements of connected autonomous driving applications. Recent investigations have shown that none of the technologies is flexible and reliable enough to serve the diverse requirements in terms of delay, reliability and throughput under the various circumstances observed by vehicles. Hybrid V2X communications enables the coordination of multiple communication technologies to efficiently adapt to the time-varying channel and road traffic conditions. Further it allows to increase reliability and throughput of transmissions by combining multiple RATs in parallel. This work gives an overview of the potential, challenges and main design aspects of hybrid V2X communications considering the latest technological developments.