In 2018, the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance partnered with Google to combine its software program platform and companies like Google Maps and Assistant into automobiles. Now, Renault Group (Renault, Dacia, Alpine and Mobilize) is increasing that partnership to develop a “software-defined vehicle” (SDV) with Google primarily based on Android Automotive OS. The intention is to ship “new on-demand services and continuous upgrades to be delivered to the car,” with Google performing as its “preferred cloud provider.” 

To speed up growth, the businesses will work collectively on a “Digital Twin,” or a digital model of the automotive. It’ll use superior AI capabilities to permit the businesses to extra simply combine new options and companies into the car, whereas permitting for “new onboard (In-Car Services) and offboard applications,” the businesses mentioned. It’ll additionally enable “continuous upgrades to be delivered to the car.” 

According to the businesses, the SDV will enable predictive upkeep and higher detection and rectification of failures in close to actual time if obligatory. It’ll additionally enable for a personalised expertise that adapts to driving habits like frequent locations, EV charging stations used, and so on. It’ll additionally assist the businesses construct “insurance models based on actual usage and driving behaviors.” 

Tesla pioneered the thought of software-defined automobiles, permitting for steady enhancements to its EVs and new options by means of over-the-air software program updates. Other main automakers together with Hyundai, Porsche and others have already made plans to create their very own SDVs. However, Renault Group seems to be working significantly shut with Google to develop its personal system.