Kontron to Supply 5G Automotive Modules to European OEM, Boosting Regional Tech Sovereignty

Kontron, a global leader in IoT and embedded computer technology, announced it has secured a new European customer for its 5G Automotive Network Access Devices (NADs), which are developed and manufactured in Germany. These devices will be integrated into the vehicle platform of a leading European car manufacturer. Initially, Kontron expects to supply around 150,000 5G NAD modules, worth a double-digit million figure. The company sees potential to more than triple the supply volume if the car manufacturer rolls out the technology to further vehicle platforms.

The modules are manufactured at Kontron's new production facility in Düsseldorf, where production officially began on July 13, 2026, in the presence of federal and state government representatives. With development in Berlin and manufacturing in Düsseldorf, Kontron is currently the only provider worldwide to develop 5G communication modules in Europe and manufacture them in Germany. This contract represents a significant milestone in Kontron's strategy to establish a European alternative to non-European suppliers of mobile communications modules, as it marks the first time these modules will be used in a vehicle platform of a European car manufacturer.

5G communications modules play a key role in digital transformation. They are used in vehicles, industrial plants, rail systems, and critical infrastructure. In view of increasing demands for cybersecurity, supply chain resilience, and technological sovereignty, the availability of European communication modules is becoming increasingly important from a strategic perspective. By developing and manufacturing in Germany, Kontron is able to offer its customers short supply chains, high quality standards, and a trustworthy European supply chain.

“This order demonstrates that European OEMs and their suppliers are placing increasing emphasis on technological independence, cybersecurity, and resilient supply chains. Our 5G modules, which are developed and manufactured in Germany, provide a high-performance and reliable solution to these issues,” says Hannes Niederhauser, CEO of Kontron AG.

The NADs now commissioned form the communication interface for modern software-defined vehicles (SDVs) and enable various functions such as over-the-air updates, vehicle connectivity, remote diagnostics, and future V2X applications. With the new production line in Düsseldorf, Kontron is consistently expanding its position as a European supplier of secure and high-performance 5G communication modules for automotive, industrial, and rail applications.

Kontron's achievement underscores the growing importance of regional manufacturing for critical technologies. As European automakers seek to reduce dependence on non-European suppliers, this deal could serve as a model for other industries. The implications extend beyond automotive, touching on broader efforts to secure Europe's digital infrastructure and maintain competitive advantage in an increasingly connected world.

For more information, visit Kontron's official website and the Kontron blog.