Telia has launched a 5G partner programme for Swedish companies that are interested in exploring new technologies and testing business models.
The Swedish operator named Volvo Construction Equipment as the first company to join the programme.
It said the programme will help boost innovation and further the development of services in areas such as transportation, the emergency services and healthcare.
It builds on the 5G partnership Telia announced earlier this month with Ericsson, the KTH Royal Institute of Technology and various other outfits on the creation of a 5G innovation arena focused on the testing and development of 5G networks.
It is also a continuation of the Industrial Mobile Communication in Mining (PIMM) project, an ongoing scheme that was announced last summer, whose goal is to explore how cellular connectivity can make mines safer and more efficient. Boliden, Telia, Ericsson, Volvo CE, ABB, Wolfit, RISE SICS and LTU all contributed to the project, which is running in the Kankberg mine in Sweden.
“We are extremely pleased that Volvo CE has joined the partner programme, being the first company to do so,” said Mats Lundbäck, CTO at Telia Sweden.
“Telia will contribute with our experience in mobile technology, business development and in building everything from connectivity to complete solutions,” Lundbäck added.
Under the programme, Volvo CE will primarily test 5G technology with its remote-controlled machines and automation equipment at its research and development facilities in Eskilstuna, Sweden.
The speed advantages of 5G represent “a big step forward” for Volvo CE, the firm’s Senior Vice President of Technology, Patrik Lundblad, said.
“Within our industry, there is a great potential for processing mobile data and learning how our machines can communicate and interact,” he added. “Taking the lead in the digital revolution through Telia’s partner programme, and developing new technology, is a game changer for Volvo CE.”