eSIM technology for Cars: The Future of Secure Auto Trips

Embedded SIMs are moderately taking the traditional SIM cards over. The new technology offers digital Internet connection for smartphones, laptops, tablets, and smartwatches. A few users realize, however, that the trend is expanding toward the auto industry. Modern cars use IoT for fuel management, GPS, emergency prevention, Internet, etc. eSIM for cars​ unlocks the true opportunities of this technology. 

In this article, drivers will learn how virtual SIMs are used for autos, and which prospects exist in 2025. 

What Does eSIM Stand for Car​?

Readers can already know what eSIM is. This technology works similarly to SIM cards: the user activates the data plan and uses mobile Internet and cell data on their device. Yet, the technology is much more convenient. It doesn’t require a plastic SIM card at all! Instead, eSIMs work with compatible devices and use their built-in chips to activate the data.

It looks like magic for a user: you download the data plan online, activate it, and your device suddenly connects to cell data in a selected country. 

In 2025, the list of eSIM-compatible devices is added to cars as well. Autos has been able to use mobile internet since 2008. BMW, Toyota, Cadillac, and several other autos use tethering and connected to mobile data for better GPS and car management. eSIM is a new word in this technology – now, you can buy a data plan online and connect it to your car with the help of mobile applications. 

Why Would You Need a SIM for a Car?

The key advantage is obvious – your car will be connected to the Internet. With its help, you can use automated recommendations, drive with GPS, download music and movies for passengers, etc. Yet, these functions are provided with standard SIM cards as well. Here’s what makes eSIMs special. 

Global Connection

Are you traveling across several countries? SIM cards provide connection in one destination – by leaving it, you connect to roaming. Virtual SIM, on the contrary, can use cell data in multiple countries and even over the world. Global data plans usually contain 140+ countries, while regional options cover neighboring regions. For example, try European eSIMs for traveling across the EU without roaming. You’ll be connected to mobile Internet in all countries. 

Stable Conenction with Multiple Providers

Mobile Internet on the road is more than entertainment – this is a safety measure. With cell data, you can use GPS navigation, track car performance, and call emergency services. Unlike SIM cards, embedded SIM for cars uses the cell data of multiple providers.

For example, in the US, you’ll be switching between Verizon and T-Mobile depending on which of them shows better performance in the area. This is a superior feature for travelers, as you constantly change your location. 

Better Protection

Providers of virtual SIMs use the best SSL encryption on the market. As a new technology, it is safer than traditional cards. Thus, your data is secured from other users. When sharing the Internet with other devices, don’t worry about your data being stolen. 

Emergency Protection

A few years ago, the EU introduced the so-called “eCall” program. In case an auto, manufactured in the European Union, is involved in a road accident, the vehicle automatically sends a request to 112 – an emergency service across the Union. For this, of course, the car needs an Internet connection. 

With eSIM, you remain connected everywhere. No matter what happens, the car will automatically inform the emergency services about accidents. 

An Eco-Friendly Alternative

Embedded SIMs are mutually beneficial decisions for car manufacturers and cell data providers. Virtual SIMs don’t need plastic cards, which makes them easier to produce and eco-friendly. Car brands, meanwhile, don’t need to put SIM slots in cars, which also accelerates manufacturing processes. As an eSIM user, you contribute to eco practices.  

How Embedded SIMs are Connected to Autos?

You connect an eSIM the same way you would use a physical SIM in an auto. Several steps are included:

1. Remote a SIM card from your auto, so it will be able to find other data sources. 
2. Download an auto-management application on your smartphone. For example, BMW developed an official smartphone application, where you can manage your car’s cell data connection.
3. Buy an eSIM data plan via providers’ official apps or websites. 
4. Use instructions from your car manufacturer to activate and synchronize the data plan on your auto. 

The technology is on the development, and there are no universal ways. Each auto manufacturer offers unique ways to use cell data. Follow these instructions after activating an eSIM on your smartphone. In the future, most likely, you’ll be able to install eSIMs directly in your auto.

Prospects and Challenges: What to Expect from eSIM-Friednly Autos? 

The eSIM integration in cars is developing. Now that users have to synchronize autos with their smartphones, many customers find the solution inconvenient. In the future, you may expect easier practices:

• wider law compliance will allow eSIM providers to use the connection in more regions;
• better security measures will protect your personal data;
• the cars shall introduce ways to use eSIM directly without synchronizing them with phones. 

As most countries still use 4G Internet, don’t expect to use 5G all the time. Moreover, there are few cell towers on the road – you may be slowed down to 2G/3G far from cities. Yet, even this connection is enough for basic needs like chatting and making calls. 

Final Thoughts About eSIM Solutions for the Auto Industry

eSIM is more than a type of connection. Auto owners with embedded SIMs receive real-time updates, better data protection, connection for emergencies, and fuel management options. In the car IoT era, this technology is a must. If you’re a lucky owner of eSIM-supported autos, try it, and feel free to share your experience.