The BMW Group has set a new benchmark in automotive technology by becoming the first car manufacturer to receive the prestigious CCC Digital Key™️ certification from the Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC). This certification validates that BMW’s Digital Key meets the CCC’s rigorous standards for secure and interoperable vehicle-to-device access.
The Car Connectivity Consortium, a global cross-industry standardization organization, focuses on advancing vehicle connectivity with smart mobile devices. As a member since 2017, BMW has played a pivotal role in developing and implementing cross-industry technologies and safety standards in collaboration with other CCC members, which include leading automotive manufacturers, smartphone producers, tier one automotive suppliers, semiconductor companies, and security product providers.
Alysia Johnson, President of the Car Connectivity Consortium, highlighted the significance of the certification: “Certifying digital key solutions across the vehicle-to-device ecosystem is crucial as we strive to enhance adoption and build trust among consumers and the industry. We are proud to designate BMW as the first automotive manufacturer to receive the CCC Digital Key™️ certification, reflecting their leadership and commitment to secure vehicle access solutions.”
Kai Barbehön, Head of Central Control Unit Development, Physical Vehicle Network and Power Supply at BMW Group, emphasized the importance of this achievement: “We are dedicated to providing our customers with the best possible experience, and innovative, convenient vehicle access is a key aspect of this. Being the first to receive the CCC Digital Key™️ certification underscores our leadership in this field. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with CCC and integrating the CCC Digital Key into our current and future vehicle platforms.”
The BMW Group has been at the forefront of digital vehicle access since 2018, offering customers the ability to unlock, lock, and start their vehicles using the BMW Digital Key via Near Field Communication (NFC). In 2021, BMW introduced the Digital Key Plus with the BMW iX, featuring ultra-wideband (UWB) technology for enhanced security and convenience. This technology allows customers to access their vehicles without removing their smartphones. The Digital Key Plus has now been incorporated into the BMW compact class and the new MINI family.
Additionally, BMW Group’s digital keys can be shared with friends and family through standard messaging platforms. The UWB-based digital vehicle access specification was developed by BMW and its partners and established as a global standard through the CCC.
As BMW continues to lead the charge in digital vehicle access, this certification marks a significant milestone in their ongoing efforts to innovate and enhance the customer experience in automotive technology.
