As a communications technology leader, Huawei is well placed to explore new opportunities in mobility. Founded in Shenzhen in 1987, it began by providing communications equipment for mobile phone networks. Today, it is estimated that one-third of the world’s population uses networks powered by Huawei. The company is also the world’s largest holder of 5G patents, which find applications in everything from mobile phones and connected vehicle features to autonomous driving and smart manufacturing. Huawei also holds patents in the booming electric vehicle (EV) segment.
That’s a lot of megatrends for one company, and its diversification could position it as a key player in a mobility ecosystem characterised by connected, autonomous shared and electric technology. That said, recent years have cast a shadow over its prospects with some markets voicing concerns that Huawei networks could be a threat to national security. The US has been particularly vocal on the topic, claiming that the Chinese government could use Huawei’s 5G equipment for spying.
Chief Technology Officer Paul Scanlan isn’t just steering the company’s technology strategy; he’s also tasked with the role of educator and a big part of that, he tells Automotive World, is dispelling myths.
