Transatel, a leading global cellular connectivity provider and a subsidiary of NTT Ltd., has officially launched its Ubigi data connectivity service for MINI customers across Europe. With this launch, MINI owners in 27 countries—including major markets such as Germany, France, the UK, Italy, and Spain—can now enjoy seamless 5G in-car WiFi access by activating the Personal eSIM embedded in their vehicles. This service is available for MINI models equipped with the latest MINI Operating System 9 and the “Personal eSIM” feature.

The Ubigi service allows MINI drivers and passengers to connect multiple devices to an onboard WiFi hotspot, enabling uninterrupted streaming, navigation, and communication without relying on a smartphone’s data plan or tethering. This solution enhances the digital driving experience and reinforces MINI’s positioning as a forward-thinking, connectivity-enabled automotive brand.

Customers can activate their personal eSIM directly through the MINI App and choose from flexible Ubigi European data plans covering all EU27 countries plus the UK, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. Plans start at just €10/month for unlimited data, with discounted options available for 12-month and 36-month subscriptions.

This launch further cements Transatel’s leadership in the connected car space. Jacques Bonifay, CEO of Transatel, commented:

“We are very proud to see MINI joining our prestigious client portfolio. Transatel’s global partnership with BMW Group is growing, and so is our footprint in the connected car industry. With Ubigi, we offer a unique value proposition to OEMs and their customers for seamless connectivity management.”

Since 2018, Transatel has pioneered automotive IoT connectivity, partnering with brands such as Jaguar Land Rover, Toyota, Stellantis, and BMW Group. Its managed IoT connectivity platform powers millions of connected vehicles and smart devices worldwide, supported by its extensive network agreements in over 200 countries and territories. As an early leader in eSIM innovation, Transatel continues to drive cross-border, high-performance connectivity for the next generation of smart mobility.

Included countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.

Bottom line

Transatel’s launch of Ubigi connectivity for MINI isn’t just a standalone feature—it sits at the crossroads of two accelerating industry trends: the rise of eSIM-based automotive services and the evolution of connected-car ecosystems.

Comparable Moves in the Market

Automakers like Tesla, BMW (with ConnectedDrive), Mercedes (mbrace), and Fiat/Chrysler through Stellantis have already integrated embedded eSIM platforms to enable OTA updates, telematics, and always-on infotainment. Transatel’s track record with brands like Toyota, Jaguar Land Rover, and Stellantis reinforces that they’re joining a well-established cohort of OEM connectivity providers.

Data-Driven Trends & Market Forecasts

• The global automotive eSIM market is poised to grow at a 4–8% CAGR from 2025 to 2032, projecting values between $15 and 19 billion.
• More broadly, the total eSIM ecosystem—spanning smartphones, IoT, wearables, and vehicles—could grow at a 10–20% CAGR, approaching $20 billion by 2032.
• Meanwhile, connected-vehicle services—covering telematics, safety, diagnostics, and infotainment—are forecasted to nearly triple from $21 billion in 2024 to $57 billion by 2034 (CAGR ≈10.8%).

These numbers underscore that in-car connectivity has shifted from “nice-to-have” to “must-have.” MINI’s adoption of Ubigi aligns perfectly with this direction, ensuring it isn’t just competitive—it’s future-proof.

What’s Next: Trends & Predictions

Looking ahead, we anticipate several developments:

1. Embedded 5G & C-V2X integration
   Vehicles will integrate dedicated 5G modems and participate in cellular Vehicle-to-Everything (C‑V2X) networks for safety-critical features, leveraging low latency and direct communication. Ubigi’s 5G-ready infrastructure could evolve into a broader platform supporting dynamic map updates, hazard warnings, and V2X services.
2. Shift toward Software‑Defined Vehicles (SDVs)
   As vehicles become software-centric, manufacturers—including MINI—will monetize features post-sale via connectivity. Services like augmented navigation, enhanced telematics, and embedded streaming can be unlocked via Ubigi eSIM subscriptions. This model is gaining ground with OEMs offering modular in-vehicle apps, OTA refinements, and cloud-based services.
3. Consolidation and operator partnerships
   As competition ramps up, expect to see further partnerships among telcos, OEMs, and IoT specialists—mirroring Transatel’s Ubigi model. Deal structures will need to balance global coverage, local compliance (particularly data privacy regulations in Europe), and the ability to deliver unified customer experiences across borders.

Final Thought

By integrating Ubigi Personal eSIM for MINI vehicles, Transatel taps into a rapidly maturing segment that’s moving from novelty to necessity. With eSIM-based automotive services accelerating globally, MINI owners can expect Ubigi to evolve far beyond on-board WiFi—into a pillar of personalized, connected mobility that underpins the future of software-defined, 5G-powered driving.