GM vehicles to go 5G via AT&T starting with 2024 models.

General Motors announced in a press release last week that it will add 5G connectivity to its vehicles through a partnership with AT&T.

5G connectivity will begin with certain model year 2024 vehicles, GM said. This could include the GMC Hummer EV SUV, which has already been confirmed as a 2024 model. Additionally, GM claims that 2019 and later models with built-in 4G LTE connectivity will have "many of the same performance benefits" as 5G-equipped vehicles with faster network speeds through the upgraded network.

Most current models of GM's four U.S. brands (Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, and Cadillac) come standard with 4G LTE connectivity; GM says these vehicles will be added to the new network as the infrastructure becomes available.

The rollout follows a two-year development program that includes testing 5G-equipped vehicles at GM's proving ground in Milford, Michigan; AT&T is also GM's communications partner in 4G LTE connectivity, which began rolling out in 2014, and has Wi-fi hotspots built-in. [GM said 5G will be an important part of its over-the-air (OTA) software update strategy. Other automakers, including rival Ford, have adopted OTA updates for similar reasons; in 2019, the Blue Oval announced that it will begin using 5G networks for its so-called V2X technology.

GM is also undergoing a high-tech reinvention around its Ultium modular EV battery system and related platform, as well as a wide range of high-tech features such as its Super Cruise driver assistance system. GM also recently announced plans for a $71 million California design center and announced that it "aspires" to eliminate tailpipes from all small cars by 2035.