Google and Renault Are Collaborating to Build a "Software-Defined Vehicle"

Google and French automobile manufacturer Renault first teamed up in 2018 to work on cloud computing. As part of Renault’s aim to undergo a “digital transformation,” the two companies will be expanding and accelerating their partnership to develop a “software defined vehicle” (SDV).

While it’s not totally clear what a software-defined vehicle will look like, it seems that Renault is trying to bring upgrades to the software system of its vehicle fleet in the form of advanced and personalized AI capabilities.

Renault currently utilizes an operating system developed by Android, along with Google’s cloud technology. The expansion of the partnership will see Renault lean more heavily on Google, particularly when it comes to new onboard and offboard apps and the implementation of continuous upgrades to vehicle systems.

Renault CEO Luca de Moro says that the partnership will accelerate the automaker’s “end-to-end digital transformation, from the design of the car to its market launch through its production, and ultimately to bring added value to our customers.”

“Our collaboration with Renault Group has improved comfort, safety, and connectivity on the road,” Google CEO Sundhar Pichai added. “Today’s announcement will help accelerate Renault Group’s digital transformation by bringing together our expertise in the cloud, AI, and Android to provide for a secure, highly-personalized experience that meets customers’ evolving expectations.”

The two companies have yet to outline a timeline for when consumers can expect to see software-defined vehicles in action.

In other automotive news, a Porsche 911 prototype has scaled the highest volcano in the world.