Ford teamed up with Google for its future in-car technologies

KUALA LUMPUR: Ford is on a mission to transform its in-car technologies and for that, it joined hands with the tech giant Google. Yes, the two big names come together for a first-of-its-kind partnership that will see the American automaker using the tech company’s products and expertise to bolster its vehicles and services. Also, Google Cloud will be Ford’s preferred cloud provider.

Beginning in 2023, this unique partnership will span a period of six years, during which millions of future Ford and Lincoln vehicles (at all price points) will be powered by Android, with Google apps and services built-in. This means Google Assistant, Google Maps, and other automotive-approved Android applications will be available in cars without using an Android smartphone.

To make all these happen, the companies are going to establish a new collaborative group, named Team Upshift, which will push the boundaries of Ford’s transformation, unlock personalized consumer experiences, and data-driven opportunities. It may include different projects like creating a whole new retail experience, developing new ownership offers based on data, and so on. 

Ford will also use the tech giant’s Cloud, which means that it will leverage Google's expertise in data analysis, machine learning, and artificial intelligence for the digital transformation. The Google Cloud will help Ford to accelerate modernization of product development, manufacturing and supply chain management, and even more reliable plant equipment performance. 

“As Ford continues the most profound transformation in our history with electrification, connectivity, and self-driving, Google and Ford coming together establish an innovation powerhouse truly able to deliver a superior experience for our customers and modernise our business,” said Jim Farley, President, and CEO of Ford.

“From the first moving assembly line to the latest driver-assist technology, Ford has set the pace of innovation for the automotive industry for nearly 120 years,” said Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google and Alphabet. “We’re proud to partner to apply the best of Google’s AI, data analytics, compute and cloud platforms to help transform Ford's business and build automotive technologies that keep people safe and connected on the road.”

The companies also said that the Android software in the car will provide access to third-party developers for creating apps, particularly for the car. 

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