Panasonic TOUGHBOOK has completed the deployment of over 2,500 ruggedised 5G routers across The AA’s UK roadside vehicle fleet, significantly improving connectivity, operational efficiency, and reducing overall costs. The large-scale rollout of Panasonic’s Connected Vehicle solution was executed in collaboration with The AA, Cradlepoint (an Ericsson company), and Gamma Telecom, and concluded in just over nine months.
The comprehensive solution, managed entirely by Panasonic TOUGHBOOK, covered project management, testing, installation, training, and will include field services maintenance for the next five years. The twin-5G modem system, using both primary and backup SIMs, provides up to 98% connectivity coverage across the UK, enabling a 25-meter operational radius around each vehicle.
With strong and stable connectivity now supporting essential systems, including diagnostics, onboard cameras, and real-time call-out data, the AA benefits from reduced downtime and increased roadside productivity. The centralized solution also lowers total ownership costs by eliminating the need for multiple cellular plans and individual 5 G-enabled devices.
Panasonic also manages Ericsson’s NetCloud Manager platform for The AA, offering a unified interface with real-time insights into data usage, app performance, and network efficiency. Additionally, a screen mirroring solution allows data from Panasonic rugged devices to be displayed on in-vehicle infotainment systems, enhancing technician workflow.
Wendy Richardson-Brooks, IT Operations Improvement & Innovation Manager at The AA, described the upgrade as ‘game-changing,’ highlighting the leap from limited 3G/4G coverage to near-complete 5G connectivity, which boosts both technician efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Nick Miller, EU Sales Strategy Manager at Panasonic TOUGHBOOK, emphasized the success of the rapid deployment, saying the project reflects Panasonic’s commitment to innovation, reliability, and comprehensive service delivery.
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